Planning a funeral can be a very difficult task, especially considering the circumstances. When something as tragic as a family member or friend passes away, the last thing you want to deal with is planning the funeral. For this reason, we have compiled a list of things to remember when planning a funeral. Although this will not help with the emotional stress you are experiencing, it may take off some of the pressure you are experiencing in such a difficult time.

When planning a funeral, consider the following:

1. Collect personal information and compile to form an obituary.

2. Choose a funeral home

3. Choose whether the deceased will be buried or cremated.

4. Select a casket or cremation container.

5. Choose the funeral location and type of funeral service.

6. Decide when and where the visitations will take place (attend visitations as well).

7. Decide what the deceased will wear (if buried).

8. Select the music for the funeral service.

9. Choose literature to be read at the funeral service.

10. Arrange for funeral transportation (funeral coach, limousine, clergy car, etc.)

11. Choose the clergy or the officiator.

12. Select who you want to be the pallbearers.

13. Select which family member or friend is going to perform the eulogy.

14. Choose a cemetery (if not already chosen by the deceased).

15. Select a burial or cremation plot (if not already chosen by the deceased).

16. Submit the obituary to the appropriate newspapers, etc.

Depending on whether or not the death was expected, many of these considerations may have already been planned by the deceased. If the death was sudden, chances are there will be more planning on your part.

There are a number of things to consider which cannot be arranged before the death occurs. These will need to be taken into consideration as well. These include issues such as applying for death certificates, applying for a burial permit and arranging a location and for food for the reception.

Other considerations which are usually discussed, but are a lot less crucial to the funeral planning process, include matters such as flower arrangements, jewelry of the deceased, memorial cards and accommodating out-of-town guests. These are very important issues, but they can most likely be performed by someone else other than the individual doing the rest of the planning.

The funeral planning process is very difficult for just one person to take on. You will need to come together and support each other and make sure you each contribute your part to the planning process. Don't put the burden on just one person; it's too much to deal with at a time which is already very stressful.