Planning a funeral can be a daunting task. From deciding on the type of funeral service to planning logistics, there are a lot of details to consider. This is where a funeral director comes in. A funeral director is someone who is experienced with all the details involved in planning a funeral.
While it’s tempting to go with the first funeral home you find, you must take the time to consider several options before making a decision. To help you do that, we’ve compiled a list of questions to help you.
42 Questions to ask a funeral director before making your final decision:
- What are your qualifications?
- How long have you been in business?
- What’s your philosophy on funerals?
- What types of services does your funeral home offer?
- How many funerals have you organized?
- Can you accommodate special requests?
- What experience have you had with funerals for infants or young children?
- Do you have bilingual staff?
- Do you have experience with military funerals?
- What are your working hours?
- How do you handle out-of-hours emergencies?
- What’s your policy on pre-planning funerals?
- Do you offer cremation services?
- If so, what type of cremation services do you offer?
- What services do you provide?
- Are there any restrictions on what can be done with the ashes after cremation?
- What steps are necessary to arrange a funeral?
- Can you accommodate religious and cultural traditions?
- What are my options for a cremation?
- Do you offer unique or personalized services?
- Can I see a copy of your contract?
- What are your cancelation terms?
- Are you available around the clock?
- Do you have testimonials or reviews from customers that I can read?
- Can I talk to some of your previous customers?
- Do you have brochures or additional resources that I can take home?
- Do you have a list of recommended readings or music for the service?
- How do you work with the family in planning the service?
- Do you have experience with non-traditional funerals?
- What are your funeral home’s policies regarding visitation and funeral services?
- What types of caskets do you offer?
- Do you offer green/natural burial options?
- If yes, what green/natural burial options do you offer?
- What’s your policy on cremation and burial?
- What is your policy on embalming?
- What’s the average cost of a funeral in your area?
- What’s the average cost of your services?
- Do you incur additional costs, e.g. for transportation or paperwork?
- What forms of payment do you accept?
- Do you offer discounts for seniors or veterans?
- Do you have any discounts or packages available?
- When can I make an appointment for a consultation?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process of a funeral?
The process of a funeral usually begins with the body being prepared for burial or cremation. The body is usually washed and dressed in a white sheet. It’s then placed in a casket or urn.
The casket or urn is then taken to the funeral home or place of worship, where the funeral service is held. The service may include prayers, readings from the Bible, and music. After the service, the casket or urn is taken to the cemetery or crematory for burial or cremation.
Who gives the eulogy at a funeral?
The eulogy is traditionally delivered by a family member or close friend of the deceased. It’s an opportunity to share memories and say goodbye. The eulogy can be heartbreaking, but it can also be comforting and uplifting. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the life of the deceased person.
What is the most difficult part of being a funeral director?
The most difficult part of being a funeral director is dealing with the emotions of families. They are often in shock and grieving, and it’s the funeral director’s job to help them through that.
They have to be patient and helpful, and sometimes they have to deal with difficult family members. It can be difficult to comfort them and help them through this difficult time.
Conclusion
Funeral directors play an important role in helping grieving families in their time of need. By asking the right questions, you can ensure that the funeral service goes the way you want it to. We hope this list of questions is helpful as you begin interviewing funeral directors.
