So, what does a funeral director do?

I always push Funeral Directors to network, even if they are uncomfortable, as we are undoubtedly a magnet for questions. One of the most common questions I am asked is - what do you actually do? 

While I may not be in the day to day of funeral directing anymore, I still answer this question the same way. A funeral director is here to guide you through the most difficult time in your life and well beyond that. We are here to complete statistical paperwork, arrange services, communicate with medical professionals, coordinate services with clergy and cemeteries or crematories, place obituaries, create meaningful tributes, guide you through the options available, and most importantly help you tell the story of your loved one. 

One of the most rewarding things I do in my current role is walk families through what to expect prior to their interactions with a funeral home or cemetery. I outline the statistical information that they will need to have to complete any legal paperwork such as the certified copy of the death certificate, including any military discharge papers, their mother’s maiden name, and any other state specific requirements.

As a next step, I review merchandise and service options with the family. I take the word “direct” very seriously in my discussions as families may be unaware of all of the options available to them. If the family is of the Jewish faith, they will need to know that there is an array of all wood constructed kosher caskets if they would like options other than a plain pine. This means that they can have a casket with an interior panel design such as a Star of David or menorah, a stained casket, or an oak, poplar or even mahogany casket for their loved one. 

Next, we discuss the type of service they are looking to have. I review the benefits of having a chapel service - protection from weather elements, heating and air conditioning, streaming capability, a comfortable location for family and friends to visit prior to the service - and also the opportunity to have a graveside service, if that is more convenient or beneficial to the family. 

There is of course a lot more involved in funeral directing and the planning of services, which I will continue to write about, but it is important to have an overview to understand why you see a Basic Services Fee on a funeral contract. 

My funeral director mantra is - every service a family has, they are planning for the first time. As professionals in the end-of-life industry, our role is to help ease this difficult process, provide families with the opportunity to mourn their loved one, tell their story now and for generations to come. Never be afraid to ask us a question, that is what we are here for.