When a need arises, funeral directors become a source of comfort and guidance. Until then, however, many remain a bit of a mystery.
What do they do, and what are their primary responsibilities? What don’t most people generally understand about funeral directors, and what should they know? What is the role of a funeral director?
What Is a Funeral Director?
A funeral director is a professional who is licensed in arranging funerals and embalming. In short, they are responsible for preparing a body for cremation or burial.
Funeral directors, however, are so much more. They are respected members of their communities and local board members. They serve as volunteers, baseball coaches, and mentors. They specialize in empathy and compassion.
Once referred to as undertakers or morticians, funeral directors are ready to serve at a moment’s notice.
The Roles of a Funeral Director
From the initial contact to the days and weeks following a funeral service, a funeral director’s duties are diverse and varied:
Make Arrangements for the Transport of the Deceased
Depending on the circumstances, a funeral director can make arrangements to transport the body to the funeral home.
Meet with the Family
Funeral directors will often quickly meet or consult with the family to gauge needs and expectations. They can help the family through the range of decisions that need to be made, ranging from cremation to burial, to a visitation schedule and service planning. They will work with a church to help facilitate religious services.
Preparation of the Deceased
Preparing the deceased for burial or cremation will often depend on the type of service desired. It could involve embalming, grooming, dressing, and casketing the body. The funeral director is there for every step.
Arranging and Overseeing Final Services
Whether final services involve a quiet cremation or a large traditional funeral or celebration of life, a funeral director helps set the tone and is responsible for seamless, respectful services.
Business Services
Funeral directors also serve as administrators of much of the paperwork involved in a death. These can include helping to secure death certificates and applying for any government or military benefits. They will assist in obituary writing and publication, prayer cards, and guest books. They can help answer questions regarding life insurance and potential probate issues.
Work at the Direction of the Family
It is important to keep in mind that while the funeral director has the knowledge and expertise, their most important duty is to work with and serve the family. They are there to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer suggestions.
The Importance of Choosing a Funeral Director
The importance of choosing the right funeral director cannot be overstated. It is why Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes and Crematory has been the choice of so many in the Greater Cincinnati region for generations.
We encourage you to do your research and reach out to us prior to your time of need. We will even assist in any pre-planning you may be considering. Learn more by contacting us today.
Post a comment