After the funeral

Cell Phones for Soldiers

We are currently participating in the Cell Phones for Soldiers drive. We are an official drop off point for unwanted cell phones. These cell phones will be given to soldiers overseas so they will have the ability to contact their loved ones.

After the funeral, there will still be a number of things that require attention. Most of them, fortunately, can be postponed for a reasonable length of time, until you feel ready.

Thank You Notes

As soon as possible, write notes to those who extended special help, sent flowers or made contributions to designated charities. We will supply you cards for this purpose, or you may use your personal stationery. There will be an ample description of the floral tribute on the back of the sender’s card, permitting you to make special reference to the flowers in your note. You will probably want to thank the casket bearers and others who helped in various ways. You may also wish to acknowledge letters of sympathy; however, it is not necessary to answer notes or cards.

Handling Letters and Calls

You will undoubtedly receive mail and phone calls for the deceased for some time. Try not to let these become upsetting, remembering these people are making an unintentional mistake.

Personal Possessions

In cases where a house or apartment is to be vacated, there is often a substantial accumulation of personal belongings. Although it may be difficult, this task should be performed by close family members. Items of sentimental value or other personal significance that might otherwise be overlooked will be recognized by family members. And it is always possible that something of value or importance may be discovered. After careful review by the family, often some items remain which are not wanted. It is considerate to offer clothing, tools, furniture and other household items to a charitable organization that can put them to good use.

What You Should Do Now

As you read through this site, it may occur to you that planning a funeral can be an immense responsibility. You can take steps to relieve some of that burden. Life insurance, a will, and pre-planning the funeral are just some of the important matters you should attend to now to make things easier for those who survive.

Life Insurance Protection

Your insurance agent can advise you about the types of coverage available, and recommend the amount of coverage your family will need. Keep your policies in a safe place, but not your safety deposit box, which will be sealed for a time following you death unless a loved one is listed on the box with you. Notify your beneficiaries about your insurance and the location of the policy certificates. As you plan for providing for your family’s long-term needs, don’t overlook their short-term needs. A dilemma many families face is that the entire estate, including joint bank accounts and other funds, may be inaccessible for a considerable length of time. In order to meet ordinary daily expenses until the insurance is paid or the estate is settled, it is wise to set aside a special fund for this time of adjustment. Consult your banker or attorney for professional advice.

Your Will

If you want to direct the administration of your affairs after death exactly as you wish, a properly prepared will is essential. Without a will, your property and holdings will be distributed according to law, and the court will appoint an administrator to dispose of your estate.
A will reflecting your specific wishes will be reassuring to you and your family. A properly prepared will enables you to:

• Select your own executor;

• Remember and provide for members of your family and other loved ones;

• Make bequests to your church or synagogue, charities, schools and other organizations;

• Possibly reduce estate taxes;

• Examine the benefits of a trust fund, and establish one if you desire;

• Provide for an organ donation(s);

• Ensure all instructions are carried out according to your personal wishes.

If you do not already have a will, make arrangements with an attorney to have one prepared. If you do have a will, plan to review it periodically to make certain it still expresses your wishes.

Pre-planning:

Thoughtful preparation can offer peace of mind not only to the one making the plans but also to those left behind. Pre-planning is also a practical gesture because it allows you to make unhurried, informed decisions. Preplanning compels you to organize important documents your survivors will need later. With advance planning, you can choose a reasonable budget, and even set aside the funds over a period of time, to ease the financial burden on your family. There are several important things to consider when pre-planning. You will want to consider any religious practices that are expected by your faith. You should be especially considerate of the family members
who will be left behind by not over planning. Instead, make general suggestions that can be adapted or adjusted to make the funeral more meaningful to the participants. Refrain from impractical requests. Your funeral director can discuss the many funeral plans available, and help you select one suited to your personal needs. If at all possible, discuss these plans with your family, for the assurance your plans are appropriate, and for their cooperation in respecting them at death.