What Does a Funeral Director Do?

The death of a loved one is among the most difficult experiences we will ever face.

During this time, you’ll want someone to guide you through the final arrangements and answer any questions you may have. A professional funeral director can help you organize a ceremony, complete necessary paperwork and more. The role of the funeral director has evolved into a specialized and essential profession.

A funeral director completes many essential services before, during and after a funeral service. Involvement begins soon after a death occurs. They will provide transfer of the deceased to the funeral home or requested location. They will provide or oversee care of the deceased. Most importantly, they remain a calm and reliable source for grieving family and friends. Here is a look at some of the functions of a funeral director.

Communication

• Meet with family members and friends to obtain necessary information, discuss the last wishes of the deceased, talk about arrangements for burial or cremation and plan any funeral service or celebration of life.
• Assist family in creating and publishing an obituary
• Offer to assist with notification to relatives, friends, and the community
• Advise family on personalizing any ceremony such as flowers, music, photos or video

Administration

• Obtain certified copies of the death certificate as needed
• Complete certificates, authorizations or permits that may be required by law.
• Arrange for family’s choice of ceremony location and officiant
• Coordinate pallbearers, transportation and any unique services such as military honors
• Provide registry book, poster, prayer cards or any printed items requested by the family
• Coordinate delivery of floral pieces prior to the service, or assist in arranging donations to an organization in lieu of flowers.
• Arrange for disposition of the deceased with cemetery, crematory or other
• Arrange for post-service distribution of floral arrangements per family’s wishes

Compassion

• Conduct any funeral service with dignity and respect, coordinates funeral procession to final destination
• Meet with family following service to return completed registry book, donations or mass cards
• Provide additional services including assistance with grief counseling, completion of benefit or insurance paperwork, etc.

A funeral director should be respectful of your wishes, knowledgeable about the process, and dedicated to making the experience as stress free as possible for you and your family. This is exactly what we do at Bi-State Cremation and Funeral Services. We take pride in the respect, dignity, and affordability of our St Louis funeral home services in our community. From the first time you contact our incredible staff, you will know you are in good hands. Let us answer your questions and provide the support you need during this difficult time. Call 314-831-8868.