Planning a funeral can be a difficult and emotional task, but having a checklist can help ensure that everything is taken care of. However, before proceeding with the funeral or cremation itself, there are important things to consider and take care of after someone has passed away. This includes the following:

  • Confirmation of death and death certificate: A medical professional, such as a doctor, nurse, or paramedic, will need to confirm the death and issue a medical certificate of cause of death. This certificate is required to register the death with the relevant government authorities.
  • Consent for organ donation: If the deceased expressed a desire to donate their organs or tissue, family members or next of kin will be contacted and asked to provide consent.
  • Notification of people: Family and friends should be notified of the death as soon as possible. This can be done through phone calls, text messages, or social media posts.
  • Finding the Will and/or prepaid funeral plan: If the deceased had a Will or prepaid funeral plan, it's important to find these documents as soon as possible. The Will can provide important instructions on how to handle the deceased's assets and estate, while the prepaid funeral plan can outline their dedicated funeral arranger and wishes for the funeral service.

Funerals are often unique, including only what is appropriate for you and your family. You may not require or wish to include every item on the checklist below.

  • Determine burial or cremation. Decide whether you want a traditional burial or cremation, and whether you want a religious or non-religious service. If the deceased loved one had any specific wishes, make sure to honour them.
  • Choose a funeral director. Choose a reputable funeral director who can guide you through the process of arranging a funeral, and who can help you choose the right type of service. Contact our team on 1800 071 176 to talk to our team and see if Bare is right for your needs.
  • Select a casket or urn. Select a casket or urn for the deceased. You can choose from a range of options based on your budget and preferences.
  • Notify relevant organisations. Notify any relevant organisations, such as the deceased's employer, insurance company, and bank.

If arranging a memorial service:

  • Choose a venue and date. Decide on a location for the funeral and choose a date that is convenient for family and friends.
  • Plan the service. Plan the service and choose any readings, music, or other elements that you want to include.
  • Decide on funeral flowers. Decide on any funeral flowers you want to include and arrange for their delivery.
  • Arrange for catering. Arrange for catering for the funeral reception, if you plan to have one.
  • Finalise details with the funeral director. Finalise all details with the funeral director, including the cost and payment arrangements.
  • Inform attendees. Let attendees know about the dress code and any other important information they need to know.
  • Prepare an obituary. Prepare an obituary that can be included in the funeral program or published in a local newspaper.
  • Thank you notes. Consider sending thank you notes to those who attended the funeral or provided support during this difficult time.

Bare takes the difficulty and stress out of planning a memorial. Speak to our team on 1800 071 176 or head to our Funeral Services page for more details. 

It is no doubt that planning a funeral is never a simple task, so it's essential to consider what would work best for you and your family while also honouring the deceased's wishes.

Bare provides a service that allows you to skip several of the items on this checklist, as we will take care of those duties for you. Transportation, medical/legal documents such as death certificate, mortuary services, the cremation (including the eco coffin), and returning the ashes in a simple urn are all included in our cremation-only arrangements. 

Families still have the option to celebrate the loved one’s life by planning a personalised memorial service or scattering ceremony that reflects the personality and wishes of the deceased. Bare can help with a Memorial after the ashes are returned or anytime the family wishes to do so.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to honour and celebrate the life of your loved one in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to you. Whether that means a simple and intimate gathering or a larger, more elaborate service, there is no right or wrong way to plan a funeral.

Learn more about Bare Funeral Services