Did you know that October 30 is National Plan a Funeral Day? Aside for the fact that there seems to be a holiday for everything nowadays, the rather intimidating reality is that if you or someone you love died tomorrow, the surviving family would be faced with at least 88 decisions to make in a very short amount of time. These range from notifications to authorities, family and friends, collection of information for the necessary paperwork, decisions about funeral or memorial services, payment arrangements, estate matters and much more.
The good news is that nearly 50 of these matters can be handled ahead of time through the preplanning process. If you like, you can start the process online to get an idea of service options and costs, and then meet with our staff to discuss all the details and file a plan of your wishes. We can also share with you some ways to set aside funds to cover these costs, including taking out a funeral insurance policy, assigning an existing life insurance policy, or participating in a state funeral trust. Any arrangements that you make ahead of time will lessen the burden on your surviving family members, and will be a blessing to them during what will be a very difficult time.
When you complete the process, you will have a plan in place for your loved ones to follow, so they can have the confidence that everything is being handled the way you wanted.
We understand that this process may feel daunting, and it can be hard to get started. But our preplanning associates are always here to help, with no pressure or obligation. Please give us a call today if you or a loved one needs to take this first step towards peace of mind.
Our pets become cherished members of our families, providing unconditional love, companionship, and joy to our lives. When they pass away, the grief we feel is genuine and profound. While our furry friends are only here for a short time, the impact they have on our lives is monumental. Here are some ways you can honor your beloved furry friend, after they’ve pass.
Create a memory box.
Putting together a box of items that remind you of a beloved pet can help you cope with their loss. Include items such as their collar, favorite toy, paw imprint, fur lock, and anything else that meant a lot to them. Keeping these items can bring comfort and closure after they have passed.
Spread their ashes somewhere meaningful.
If you choose to have your pet cremated, you can spread the ashes somewhere meaningful for your pet. You can even use the ashes to plant a tree in memory of them.
Donate to shelters in their memory
Animal shelters need donations, whether monetary donations or item donations. Donating to shelters in your beloved pet's name not only preserves your pet's memory, but also helps the animals in the shelter find their forever home.
Foster animals
Fostering is a great option if you aren't ready to get another pet but want to share the love you had for your pet with those in need. Because shelters fill up quickly, animals need foster homes. Fostering allows you to heal at your own pace, while sharing love with a pet in need.
Our pets become part of our family. During their time here on earth we share so many special moments with them, that when they are gone the emptiness left behind is unfathomable. It’s important to take proper care of yourself during this time of grief and figure out ways to keep your pet’s memory alive.