The Importance of Funeral Plans

Funerals have a long history, dating back thousands of years across various cultures.

Funerals have always held immense cultural and religious significance. In ancient times, rituals were performed to honour and remember the deceased. Perhaps the most famous of funeral directors, the Egyptians had elaborate burial practices. They practised embalming and mummification rituals to prepare the deceased for the afterlife. They believed in preserving the body for the soul’s journey into the next world.

Ancient Greeks believed the soul or psyche departed as a puff of wind upon death so conducted ceremonies to celebrate and commemorate the departed. Greeks honour their dead with funeral rites, including cremation or burial, accompanied by ceremonies and rituals to pay respects to the departed. Women played a major role in classic Greek funeral rites too. Not performing the rites was considered an insult.

During the Middle Ages, Christianity significantly influenced funeral customs in Europe. Church-led ceremonies became customary, emphasising prayers for the deceased and promoting the idea of their transition to the afterlife. In the west, black attire came to symbolise mourning and respect, becoming a prevalent part of funeral dress codes.

But as populations grew, burial space became limited. There were also health concerns when people had died of infectious diseases.

The Industrial Revolution brought notable changes to funeral practices. Advances in embalming techniques, pioneered by individuals like Dr. Thomas Holmes (1817-1900), made it possible to preserve bodies for longer periods, allowing families more time for mourning and funeral arrangements. At this time funeral homes emerged, providing dedicated spaces for viewing, services, and preparations, gradually replacing home-based funeral rituals.

Even back in Roman times, burial was considered so important that burial clubs were formed. Members would club together with money or resources to ensure other members were able to get the proper burial their soul needed to move on.

Funeral insurance and funeral plans really gained popularity in the 20th century. These plans enabled individuals to prearrange and prepay for their funerals, relieving financial burdens on surviving family members. The funeral industry expanded its offerings, providing a wide array of services and customizable options to accommodate different preferences and budgets.

Contemporary Funeral Trends

Today’s funerals reflect a blend of tradition and modernity. While some adhere to long-standing customs and cultural traditions, others opt for personalised or themed ceremonies. Eco-friendly funerals have gained traction, focusing on sustainable practices like green burials or biodegradable caskets. Digital innovations, such as live-streaming services for distant mourners, have also become more common.

In this way, funeral plans have evolved to offer a spectrum of options. They can range from basic packages covering essential services like cremation or burial to comprehensive plans encompassing specific requests for ceremonies, locations, and additional amenities. These plans aim to provide peace of mind to individuals and their families by allowing them to outline their preferences and manage the financial aspects in advance.

Modern Day Funeral Plans

•         Choosing a funeral plan is an important decision. Research and choose a reputable funeral plan provider, read reviews, ask for recommendations so you know the company has a history of delivering on its promises.

Here’s what to look for:

•         Make sure the funeral director is clear with you and you understand what your plan covers. Check if it includes essential services, such as transportation, preparation of the body and a memorial ceremony.
•         Understand the costs involved and look for transparency in pricing. Be aware of any potential additional charges, and make sure you are comfortable with the financial commitment.
•         Check the payment options available. Some plans offer lump-sum payments, while others provide instalment plans. Choose what aligns with your financial situation.
•         Check the cancellation and refund policies of the plan. Life circumstances may change, and it’s essential to know your options if you need to adjust or cancel the plan.
•         Verify if the plan is transferable if you relocate. Some plans allow you to transfer the benefits to a different location without losing your investment.
•         Assess the customer support services provided by the funeral plan provider. Clear communication and reliable assistance are crucial during difficult times.

Final Thoughts

Funeral plans aren’t new or modern.  A good funeral plan should provide coverage tailored to your preferences, offer flexibility in customisation, and be transparent about costs and payment options. The reputation of the provider and its customer support services are crucial. Choose a plan that aligns with your needs, not that is being forced on you by a funeral director.  You’ll ensure a dignified farewell and also provide financial and emotional peace of mind for loved ones during challenging times.