Preparing A Funeral
Preparing A Funeral
WHAT NEEDS TO BE CONSIDERED WHEN MAKING FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS AND PRE-ARRANGEMENTS?
There are two main aspects to consider when arranging and pre-arranging a person’s funeral;
Information required to be completed for the registry of births, deaths and marriages. See Registering A Death for further information
Information required to be completed to perform the funeral service according to the person’s wishes. See The Funeral Service for more information.
The most important aspect to remember is that we have the knowledge to answer any questions you might have regarding the arranging of a funeral service. If you are unsure of what to do next contact us immediately on (02) 6351 2661 so that we can guide you through your concerns.
Registering A Death
The following information is legally required to be completed for the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in New South Wales when a death occurs. This information is generally provided to the funeral director at the time of making funeral arrangements.
- Surname and given names
- Surname at birth
- Sex
- Date of death
- Place of death
- Date of birth
- Place of birth (if born overseas, year of arrival in Australia)
- Usual address
- Main occupation during working life
- Retired (yes or no)
- Receiving a pension (yes or no). If yes what type of pension
Marriage particulars – for each marriage include;
Place of marriage (Church, Chapel, Park, etc.)
City / town of marriage
Age when married
Full name of spouse at time of marriage
- Children – for each child include;
Full name
Date of birth
Sex
Alive, Still Born, Deceased
- Full names of parents including parent’s surnames at birth
- Parent’s working occupations
The Funeral Service
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS NEED TO BE CONSIDERED WHEN MAKING FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS;
- Do you have a Will? If yes, who is your Executor and who has the latest copy?
- Where is your service to be held – Church, Crematorium Chapel, graveside, other?
- What music, hymns, readings would you prefer?
- Who is to prepare and read the eulogy (family tribute)? – Family, friend or minister can do this.
- What is your Religion – Catholic, Anglican, none, etc.?
- Do you wish to be buried or cremated?
- Do you prefer a Minister or a Celebrant?
- Is the funeral director to supply mourning cars or does the family drive themselves to and from the funeral?
- What flowers are to be placed on the coffin (types, colours, etc.)
- Should mourners be asked to make donations to an organisation rather than bring flowers?
- Where should the funeral be advertised – newspapers and radio stations?
- What clubs or organisations are you a member of?
- What payments may be expected towards the funeral – Centrelink, Funeral Funds, Veterans Affairs, Unions, Health Insurance, etc.?
- Do you wish to have family and friends as pallbearers or do you require assistance from the Funeral Director?
- Do you allow your family to have a viewing of you?
- What would you like to be dressed in?
- What jewellery or other items do you want to be buried/cremated with you?
- What type of coffin would you prefer (normally selected with the assistance of the funeral director)?
- If you are to be cremated, where should your ashes be memorialised – wall or garden, scattered?
