Looking After the Needs of Mourners
Informing Others About the Death and Funeral
When someone passes away, it’s important to inform those who were close to them. Here are some steps to consider:
Personal Contacts
- Close Friends and Family: Reach out to those who were particularly close to the person who has died personally.
- Wider Networks: Consider utilising social clubs, former work colleagues, or other networks to spread the news. Many will appreciate being able to help by informing others.
- Timing: You may prefer to wait until funeral details are finalised before informing wider acquaintances to avoid having to make multiple calls.
Communication
We can set up a webpage with all the funeral arrangement details, and information about travel and accommodation etc. Then you have a web address to send to people, saving much time in explaining and ensuring everyone has the same information.
Funeral Arrangements
Pall Bearers and Honour Guards
- Volunteers: Family, friends, or colleagues may wish to act as coffin bearers or form a ‘guard of honour’. We can advise you on any venue restrictions, such as accessibility issues.
Transportation
- Family cars to the funeral: We can provide limousines or less formal cars for family members.
- Public Transport: For mourners dependent on public transport, ask those with cars to offer lifts, especially if refreshments are served at a different venue.
- Assembly Point: Decide whether mourners should gather at the family’s home or directly at the funeral venue. We can liaise with local authorities if parking becomes an issue.
Additional Considerations
Dress Code
- Attire: Most people may choose to wear sombre clothing unless specified otherwise, but this is not obligatory and many funerals are now less formal. If a particular colour or style is preferred, communicate this to the mourners.
Order of Service
- Printed Materials: We can produce printed orders of service, which can include photographs and other details should you wish.
Floral Tributes and Donations
- Preferences: Let mourners know if floral tributes are welcome or if you prefer donations to a specific charity. We can often manage the collection of donations, and some charities provide gift aid envelopes.
Refreshments
- Post-Funeral Gatherings: Hosting a wake provides an opportunity for mourners to share memories and offer condolences. This can be at the family home, a pub, hotel, or church hall, with formal catering or contributions from friends and family. We can also host at our beautiful venue by The Dart River in Buckfastleigh and arrange all catering requirements.
- Accommodation: People travelling from afar will generally make their own accommodation arrangements and won’t expect you to provide overnight stays during this challenging time.
Planning a funeral involves many considerations, but with careful thought and support, you can create good environment for all mourners. If you have any questions or need further assistance, Heart and Soul Funerals is here to help every step of the way.
