Before meeting with a funeral director it is important to consider the style of service that you would like for your loved one. In this blog, our care team at Reynolds Funerals has summarised some questions to help guide you.
Where would you like the funeral service held?
It may be appropriate for the funeral to be conducted at a church, crematorium chapel, graveside, by the beach, golf/surf life saving club. Reynolds Funerals will endeavour to make sure that the venue is appropriate to celebrate the life story of your loved one.
Have you discussed the options of burial or cremation?
If you are unsure, did your loved one ever talk about their wishes regarding burial or cremation.
Would you like the service to be led by a civil celebrant, minister of religion or a member of the family?
Remember that even if your family is not overly religious, a civil celebrant can include readings and prayers if required. Also, in many cases a minister of religion can conduct a funeral service outside of a church.
What type of music, songs, hymns would you like to be included in the funeral service?
Music is an integral part of a funeral. Generally speaking, a maximum of three pieces of music will be played during the service. Did your loved one have a favourite song or artist? You may like to consider CD’s, a live vocalist, organist or even bag pipes.
Would you like an audio visual tribute to be played during the funeral service?
An audio visual tribute is a collection of photographic memories reflecting and honouring the life of your loved one. Your treasured moments are set against a themed background together with a favourite piece of music. If you like Reynolds Funerals can arrange multiple copies of the audio visual tribute to be made for you to distribute to family and close friends as a keepsake.
Do you require an Order of Service?
Printed materials such as an Order of Service or bookmark are often handed out at the funeral service. Consider whether they are appropriate for the type of service you are planning. Reynolds Funerals has an excellent range of printed materials which we can tailor to your family’s own style.
Would you like a floral tribute to be placed on the coffin/casket?
You might like to consider the type of flowers and colours that would be most appropriate. Perhaps you would like the colours to represent a favourite football team, club membership or country of origin.
Who would you like to deliver the eulogy?
As a guide there are generally 1 or 2 eulogies delivered as part of the funeral service. As an alternative for those people who may not have the confidence to speak publically or who may be absent, you can always pre record a eulogy and ask Reynolds Funerals to play it as part of the service.
Would you like refreshments to be held after the service?
You might like to consider where the refreshments will take place (eg: cemetery, local venue or the home of a family member). Generally, this information is included in the Order of Service or the Celebrant/Minister will announce the details during the service. If you like, Reynolds Funerals can arrange the catering for you. Our care team will take the time to explain the various menu options available.
If your loved one was a returned serviceman/woman, will an RSL service be required?
If so, the local RSL sub branch will need to be contacted to arrange for a representative to attend and lead the RSL service.
What would you like your loved one to be dressed in?
Often families choose for their loved one to be dressed in their favourite clothing. Alternatively, Reynolds Funerals can provide a garment.
Would you like a memorial book for mourners to record their names in?
This provides you with a record of those who have attended.
Will a viewing be required?
Often family members wish to spend some time with their loved one. Consider if this is something that you would like to do. Many people find a viewing to be helpful with the grieving process whilst others choose to remember the person as they were.
Are there any relatives interstate or overseas that need to be contacted?
Often airlines will provide special compassionate fares for immediate family members. Reynolds Funerals can provide the airline with the necessary information that they may require to verify the circumstances.
If travelling in cortege to the cemetery/crematorium, would you like to pass the family home or another location of significance on the way?
Would you like donations to be made to a nominated charity in lieu of flowers?
It might be appropriate to choose a favourite charity of your loved one. Alternatively, it may be suitable to choose a charity that focuses on medical research, particularly if your loved one suffered from an illness or disease. Reynolds Funerals can help organise the donation envelopes if you require assistance.
We hope this guide helps you and your family to decide how you would like to tell your loved one’s story. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the Reynolds Funerals care team on 9579 2020
