What information should I bring to the arrangement conference?

When you call us, you will be asked some general questions about funeral plans. You will be asked to provide some vital statistics about the deceased, whether there was a pre-arrangement or a will, the decedent's or family's preference for burial or cremation, and possibly your thoughts on what services you'd like to hold. Plans will not be finalized until you meet with the funeral director. The following list does not include everything, but it is a general list of things you may want to bring with you to the arrangement conference.

• Vital information about the decedent--date and place of birth and death, parents' names, names of pre-deceased relatives and survivors, Social Security number, dates of marriages/divorces
• Highest level of education
• Occupation
• Military information, including separation or discharge papers (DD-214), if the deceased was a veteran
• Any information related to a pre-arrangement, if applicable
• Place of burial or final disposition if a cemetery plot has been purchased
• Photographs--one or two recent photographs that will be used during the embalming and cosmetizing process
• Names and phone numbers of clergy or celebrants you wish to involve in the ceremonies
• Clothing, including undergarments and jewelry or glasses you would like the deceased to be viewed wearing
• Records of life insurance policies

Who should come with me to the arrangement conference?

If you are the only next-of-kin, do not feel like you need to make all the arrangements alone. Families often come to the arrangement conference in groups for moral support and to participate in the funeral experience.