Introduction........................................... 4
Why plan your own funeral............. 8
Overcoming the fear of death............................. 9
Procrastination................................................. 9
Avoidance ..................................................... 10
Denial............................................................. 10
Reasons to preplan your funeral....................... 11
Share your findings and plans........................... 13
Steps in the planning......................... 14
Step 1: Gather Documents and Information ... 14
Step 2: Choose a Funeral Home...................... 15
Step 3: Plan a Remembrance Service............. 16
Step 4: Deciding on the Final Disposition........ 18
Cremation...................................................... 19
Burial.............................................................. 20
Embalming.................................................... 22
Responsibilities................................... 23
Authority.............................................................. 23
Duties................................................................. 24
Tasks.................................................................. 25
The Legal Matter of Death................................ 26
Providers and Costs.......................... 29
Funeral Homes.................................................. 29
Funeral Directors.......................................... 29
Other Funeral Home Staff............................ 30
The Funeral Rule.......................................... 31
Funeral Home Charges................................ 32
Memorial Societies............................................ 33
Cemeteries........................................................ 34
Crematories....................................................... 36
Completing your Funeral
Plan...... 37
For More Information........................ 39
Worksheets.......................................... 40
Contact List........................................................ 40
Map
Will...................................................................... 41
Death Certificate Information............................ 42
Final Wishes...................................................... 43
Funeral Preferences.......................................... 44
Pre-Need Planning............................................ 46
