If you’ve never done it before, planning a funeral can be a confusing process.
There’s a lot to think about at a time when you are grieving the loss of a loved one. Sometimes, the deceased will have firm plans in place for their funeral, including a funeral plan to spread the costs.
If your loved one hasn’t left firm plans, then the task can be more difficult.
In this guide, we’ll outline how to go about funeral planning in Middleton, some of the funeral decisions you’ll need to make, and how to organise a funeral ceremony.
Initial considerations
Most funeral planning will begin with the wishes of the deceased.
They may have left instructions in their will, such as their choice of burial or cremation, and the type of service they would like.
In other instances, there might not be clear instructions but family and friends of the deceased may have discussed their funeral wishes with them.
Some of the key decisions you will need to make include:
● Burial or cremation: cremation is often a more affordable option, but burials will involve choosing a cemetery and purchasing a plot
● Type of funeral service: the funeral may be a traditional Christian service, another religion, or non-religious
● Budget: set a realistic budget for the funeral, and if necessary, explore cost-saving options
● Funeral location: the funeral may be held at a favourite church, mosque, or synagogue, the local crematorium, or another venue that was special to your loved one
● Personalisation: elements such as the choice of flowers, music, and readings should reflect the deceased’s wishes, preferences, or personality
Selecting a funeral director
One of the most important choices you’ll make is selecting a funeral director in Middleton.
As well as organising the logistics, they’ll take care of much of the funeral paperwork and provide support in the days and weeks after bereavement.
A local independent funeral service will have a wealth of experience and contacts.
They’ll often have taken care of funerals for local families for generations. They can provide a trusted, sensitive, and professional service to your family.
Your loved one may have already stated a preference for a funeral director or they may have taken out a funeral plan.
Talk to friends and family about funeral directors whose services they have used in the past, read online reviews, and talk to funeral directors themselves.
Arranging the ceremony
The funeral director will put you in touch with a local priest or minister from your deceased’s religious tradition, or a non-religious celebrant.
They will plan the running order of the funeral, including tributes to the deceased, music and other elements.
The funeral director can help you with much of the logistics of the day and will ensure that everything goes smoothly and in a dignified manner.
Legal and documentation
The first task when a loved one dies is to register the death.
This must be done within five days in England, and the death certificate obtained.
Permits will be required for cremation or burial.
The executor of the will then needs to take steps to manage the deceased’s financial affairs. Your funeral director will be able to advise and assist with funeral paperwork.
Trusted funeral services Middleton
Middleton’s Funeral Services is a family-run independent funeral director, serving the local community and offering a range of cost-effective packages to all, regardless of religion, faith or belief.
We provide comprehensive funeral services, which include all the major aspects of a ceremony, as well as the necessary preparations and additional arrangements.
Our support, combined with the attitude of utmost respect and understanding, will help you and your loved ones get through a difficult time.
We’re always happy to discuss our services, funeral plans, and how we can help.
