Funeral arrangements are the very last thing anyone wants to think about, and therefore it might be put off. However, this process is important and most people do like to have some say in their funeral service. Given that nearly half of adults over the age of 40 have discussions with friends and family about what they would like to be remembered for at a funeral or memorial, many have put off taking any action to procure their wishes.

By planning your funeral in advance in Anderson at Anderson Memorial Park Cemetery, you’re providing a very considerate and thoughtful gift to your loved ones. Your loved ones deserve the gift of pre-planning. As you begin your journey, here are some questions you should ask yourself.

1. Which Type of Cemetery Placement Do I Want?

Time-honored preparations for disposition include traditional burial in a ground space or entombment in a mausoleum crypt. An increasingly popular choice is cremation in which the body is cremated and the ashes are then inurned and placed in a columbarium niche, buried in the ground, or scattered under the sod.

2. How Many Guests Would I Like at the Funeral?

This may vary greatly from individual to individual. Some prefer close family only while others who might have had a more public profile might welcome the community at large. By pre-planning your arrangements you are able to select the venue for a memorial service, whether graveside, church held, or at a traditional funeral home.

3. What Kind of Music Would I Like Played at My Funeral?

Music for a funeral service can be selected for any taste. By pre-planning you are able to put your desires for music in writing, along with flowers, attire, etc.

4. Who Should Be My ‘Next of Kin’ or the Main Contact Person?

The term 'next of kin' is a legal term that can include one or more people who have your power of attorney. If you decide to share your funeral plans with other family members, it's important to know which one will take on this responsibility if you cannot make decisions for yourself.

5. Where Do I Want to Be Buried or Placed?

Once you start looking into placement locations, you will realize that each local cemetery has its own offerings and options. By making arrangements before a need arises, you are able to select the exact type you desire and utilize affordable payment options.

6. Would I Like a Memorial Service?

Funeral services are an opportunity for family and loved ones to gather, recall and reflect on the deceased's life. Memorial Services may include eulogies by family members, friends, or clergy about the deceased's life, as well as prayers and music of remembrance. Some families may also bring food for visitors to console them during this difficult period.

7. Do I Want My Ashes Buried, Scattered, or Placed in a Niche?

If you have selected cremation, then you must also select where the ashes will be placed. It's important that you discuss this with your family members and the person arranging for the cremation service. Simply saying that a family member will keep the ashes at home is not a realistic plan. Someday that person too will pass and then what will become of the cremains. Selecting ground or niche placement ensures that the cremains are finalized and a fitting memorial to mark one's life has been installed.

8. What Kind of Memorial Marker Will I Like?

Memorial markers come in various styles and sizes, so selecting a marker preneed will ensure you have what you like. It also eliminates the 'wonder what mom would have wanted' questions. Purchasing today also guarantees the pricing won't increase.

9. Where Will My Ceremony Take Place?

Funerals, memorial services, and celebrations of life take place at a variety of locations. These might include cemeteries, churches, clubs, funeral homes, or other special locations. The most important factor to consider is that the location of your funeral will honor your wishes and facilitate the capacity of guests that you envision attending.

Once you have made decisions on some of these types of questions, you can begin to discuss your final arrangement plans with your next of kin and a pre-arranged funeral planner. They will be able to help you secure your venue, procure your final resting place, and plan your celebration all according to your wishes. All of this will give you peace of mind and ensure that your loved ones are able to take that particular time to reflect, grieve, and celebrate your life.