F A M I L Y F U N E R A L C A R E
A LEGACY OF CARING
On May 15, 2009 Boyd’s Family Funeral Homes and Panciera Memorial Home joined to become Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care. We are the oldest family owned and operated funeral firm in Broward County with more than 150 years of funeral service.
The Boyd-Panciera family continues to provide exceptional, personal, compassionate and caring service. With our years of experience and being family owned, we are able to assist and cater to your needs to design a uniquely personalized service, traditional service or a simple ceremony. Every life is unique, allow our family to help your family honor that life. We are proud to serve all faiths, nationalities, traditions and lifestyles.
As our tradition remains the same in memory of our founding generation and their philosophy; “We make a difference one family at a time.”
- The Boyd-Panciera Family
THE BOYD FAMILY
The Boyd’s began serving the families of South Florida in 1950. Don worked for, and later bought, Hollywood Mortuary. In May of 1958, Don and Kathy opened the first funeral home west of US 441, becoming pioneers of West Hollywood and opened the first funeral home in Pembroke Pines in 1967.
Patrick and Larry, Don and Kathy’s sons, continued to serve the families of their community. In 2012, the Boyd family suffered an unexpected loss of Patrick Boyd. Today, Larry Boyd along with Linda Boyd carry on the tradition that was inspired by Larry’s parents and late brother Patrick.
THE PANCIERA FAMILY
The Panciera funeral service tradition began in 1932 in Rhode Island with the original Panciera Memorial Home. In 1962, that tradition expanded to South Florida with the establishment of Panciera Memorial Home in Hollywood, formerly located at Presidential Circle. Then in 1993, Mark Panciera purchased the firm from his father to carry on the family heritage into the third
generation. Today, Mark and his wife Tiffany are now proudly carrying on this care giving legacy, dedicating themselves to serving others in their time of need.
THE LOWERY FAMILY
Jerry Lowery began serving families as a teenager in the late 40’s by driving ambulances for a Miami funeral home. In 1960 Don Boyd hired Jerry Lowery as a funeral director for Boyd Funeral Home. They became close friends and co-workers for many years. In the late 60’s Mr. Lowery had the opportunity to become a partner in a prominent Miami Beach Funeral Home, and like the Boyd’s and Panciera’s, raised his son David in the profession. David became one of the top funeral care managers in South Florida and eventually partnered with Mark Panciera. Together they operated Panciera Memorial Home. Today,
While many funeral homes have been bought and sold to large corporations, the Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Homes are still privately owned and operated by the Boyd, Panciera and Lowery families. We are the oldest family owned funeral home in Broward County with more than 150 years of funeral service.
The Boyd-Panciera Family continues to provide exceptional, personal and compassionate care in the community we love. With our years of experience and because we are family owned, we are able to assist and cater to your needs to design a distinguishing personalized service, whether it’s a traditional burial or a simple low cost cremation.
We are proud to serve all faiths, nationalities, traditions and lifestyles. As our tradition and reputation has never wavered and remains the same in memory of our founding generations and their philosophy; “We make a difference one family at a time.”
THE BOYD-PANCIERA DIFFERENCE
Our funeral homes are spacious, comfortable and beautifully appointed with many amenities. We believe that each family deserves to have their own time; this is why you will never find two services going on at the same time in one of our funeral home locations.
When you have experienced a loss of a loved one or if you are looking to make arrangements in advance, you can trust our family to guide you through the various options to suit your needs not only emotionally but financially.
Let us show you what has made us a leading funeral home provider for three generations.
HONORING LIFE AND LEGACY
Every life has a story and every story deserves to be told.
We invite you to explore the many offerings families can choose to make their service truly personal and special. Many of these offerings come at no additional cost to the family. Let Boyd-Panciera honor your loved ones by creating a tribute as unique as the life you are remembering.
O ur Hi story Ab out U s
SIGNATURE FEATURES
• Spacious Chapels
• Service Director Celebrant
• Legacy Candle Lighting Service
• Keepsake Video Tribute
• Online Obituary with Photo Gallery
• Reception Rooms / Catering Services
• Café with Coffee Bar
• Large Drop Down Video Screens
• Full Multi Media Capabilities
• Wings of Hope Bereavement Program
• Annual Holiday Support Program
• Community Outreach / Educational Seminars
PRICING TO MEET ALL NEEDS
• Burial
• Cremation
• Anatomical Donation Program
• Hospice Discounts
• Burial at Sea / Scatter at Sea
• Forwarding Out of State / Country
• Buy and Sell Cemetery Property
• Monuments
• Free Pre-Planning Consultation
OUR GUARANTEE
Our staff is courteous and compassionate.
Our facilities are comfortable and spotless.
Our services are handled with dignity and respect.
Our pricing is fair and reasonable.
If you are not completely satisfied with any of our professional services or facilities you will not be charged for that service.
WHY PLAN AHEAD?
PEACE OF MIND
Many who have undergone the emotional strain of arranging a funeral within hours of losing a loved one have made the choice to pre-plan their own funeral.
Doing so lifts the burden from their loved ones by relieving decision-making pressure at a time of grief and emotional stress.
PERSONAL CHOICE
Funeral arrangements are a deeply personal choice. Pre-planning provides you with the time needed to make practical, detailed decisions that reflect your standards, lifestyle, taste and budget. We assure you and your family that the choices you make will be carried out as planned.
LOWER COSTS
When you finalize your plan, we can advise you of the total cost and different payment options that may work best for you. By purchasing a prearrangement, it protects you against escalating funeral costs by locking in today’s funeral price. This is the greatest gift to leave your family. This peace of mind will relieve yourself of unnecessary future worry and your survivors of an unexpected expense.
For additional information, please contact our Director of Advance Planning, Tiffany Panciera tiffany@bpfamilycare.com.
HOW TO PRE-PLAN YOUR FUNERAL
Pre-planning your funeral will make certain that your choices are respected and carried out, without leaving your family to wonder what your wishes might have been. You also have the option of paying for your funeral in advance; this locks-in the cost of the funeral at today’s prices.
When you’re ready to make a real plan, send us an email and we will have one of our pre-planning counselors call you to set up an appointment.
There are many different ways to begin the planning ahead conversation. You know your family and how your loved ones might best respond to the topic.
For some families, it might be a casual conversation over dinner or another family gathering; for other families, a formal meeting might be better suited.
Pre-P lanning
SIGNATURE FEATURES
• Spacious Chapels
• Service Director Celebrant
• Legacy Candle Lighting Service
• Keepsake Video Tribute
• Online Obituary with Photo Gallery
• Reception Rooms / Catering Services
• Café with Coffee Bar
• Large Drop Down Video Screens
• Full Multi Media Capabilities
• Wings of Hope Bereavement Program
• Annual Holiday Support Program
• Community Outreach / Educational Seminars
PRICING TO MEET ALL NEEDS
• Burial
• Cremation
• Anatomical Donation Program
• Hospice Discounts
• Burial at Sea / Scatter at Sea
• Forwarding Out of State / Country
• Buy and Sell Cemetery Property
• Monuments
• Free Pre-Planning Consultation
OUR GUARANTEE
Our staff is courteous and compassionate.
Our facilities are comfortable and spotless.
Our services are handled with dignity and respect.
Our pricing is fair and reasonable.
If you are not completely satisfied with any of our professional services or facilities you will not be charged for that service.
WHY PLAN AHEAD?
PEACE OF MIND
Many who have undergone the emotional strain of arranging a funeral within hours of losing a loved one have made the choice to pre-plan their own funeral.
Doing so lifts the burden from their loved ones by relieving decision-making pressure at a time of grief and emotional stress.
PERSONAL CHOICE
Funeral arrangements are a deeply personal choice. Pre-planning provides you with the time needed to make practical, detailed decisions that reflect your standards, lifestyle, taste and budget. We assure you and your family that the choices you make will be carried out as planned.
LOWER COSTS
When you finalize your plan, we can advise you of the total cost and different payment options that may work best for you. By purchasing a prearrangement, it protects you against escalating funeral costs by locking in today’s funeral price. This is the greatest gift to leave your family. This peace of mind will relieve yourself of unnecessary future worry and your survivors of an unexpected expense.
For additional information, please contact our Director of Advance Planning, Tiffany Panciera tiffany@bpfamilycare.com.
HOW TO PRE-PLAN YOUR FUNERAL
Pre-planning your funeral will make certain that your choices are respected and carried out, without leaving your family to wonder what your wishes might have been. You also have the option of paying for your funeral in advance; this locks-in the cost of the funeral at today’s prices.
When you’re ready to make a real plan, send us an email and we will have one of our pre-planning counselors call you to set up an appointment.
There are many different ways to begin the planning ahead conversation. You know your family and how your loved ones might best respond to the topic.
For some families, it might be a casual conversation over dinner or another family gathering; for other families, a formal meeting might be better suited.
Pre-P lanning
Regardless of your approach, the conversation is much easier to have when death is not imminent. Bringing up the subject with loved ones earlier in life when they are younger and most likely healthier, makes the topic easier to discuss and keeps the focus on the celebration of life rather than an impending loss.
Here are some tips that may help you start the advance planning conversation with your loved ones:
• Set a time to have the conversation; schedule it as an appointment with your loved ones, whether you want to share your plans with them or ask them to make their plans to share with you.
• Tell your parent or loved one that you want to ensure their final arrangements are done according to their wishes and you need their help to make that happen.
• Ease into the conversation. Questions such as “Have you ever thought about where you would like to be buried?” or “What type of funeral would you like to have?” may open the discussion to more details about your loved one’s wishes.
• Take advantage of funeral-related opportunities.
Attending the funeral of a friend, family member, or colleague, or watching a movie or television show with funeral scenes, may naturally prompt the discussion with your own loved ones. Talk about what you liked or didn’t like about the services you saw or attended.
• Tell your children or loved ones that because you care for them so much, you don’t want to burden them with difficult decisions when you’re gone. Tell them you’ve made your own final arrangements and give them a written record of what they are.
• Make your funeral and cemetery plans with us and then wrap a copy of your contract and wishes in a gift box and present it to your children.
• Make it a family affair. Schedule an appointment with your chosen funeral home or cemetery provider and invite your children along to participate in the selection of services, funeral merchandise, and cemetery property.
Whether you’re sharing plans for your own final
arrangements with loved ones, or encouraging loved ones to make and share their plans with you, the conversation about planning ahead is an important one that every family should have. While no one wants to think about their death or the death of a loved one any sooner than they must, having the conversation in advance alleviates the need for potentially more unpleasant or difficult conversations in the future.
To My Loved Ones:
I wanted to spare you as much anxiety, doubt, and confusion as possible at the time of my death, so in this section I have suggested some arrangements in advance.
This section includes vital statistics, funeral service guidelines, and cemetery requests, which are all important to the funeral director while assisting you to plan the details of my service.
The section also includes more personal material for eulogies, obituaries, and other remembrances.
Please accept these arrangements in the spirit they are given; with love, hoping to give you comfort and help you to remember the times we shared.
Signature: Date:
Witness: Date:
First Person to Be Notified Upon My Death:
Name: Address: Telephone: Relationship:
Notes:
Regardless of your approach, the conversation is much easier to have when death is not imminent. Bringing up the subject with loved ones earlier in life when they are younger and most likely healthier, makes the topic easier to discuss and keeps the focus on the celebration of life rather than an impending loss.
Here are some tips that may help you start the advance planning conversation with your loved ones:
• Set a time to have the conversation; schedule it as an appointment with your loved ones, whether you want to share your plans with them or ask them to make their plans to share with you.
• Tell your parent or loved one that you want to ensure their final arrangements are done according to their wishes and you need their help to make that happen.
• Ease into the conversation. Questions such as “Have you ever thought about where you would like to be buried?” or “What type of funeral would you like to have?” may open the discussion to more details about your loved one’s wishes.
• Take advantage of funeral-related opportunities.
Attending the funeral of a friend, family member, or colleague, or watching a movie or television show with funeral scenes, may naturally prompt the discussion with your own loved ones. Talk about what you liked or didn’t like about the services you saw or attended.
• Tell your children or loved ones that because you care for them so much, you don’t want to burden them with difficult decisions when you’re gone. Tell them you’ve made your own final arrangements and give them a written record of what they are.
• Make your funeral and cemetery plans with us and then wrap a copy of your contract and wishes in a gift box and present it to your children.
• Make it a family affair. Schedule an appointment with your chosen funeral home or cemetery provider and invite your children along to participate in the selection of services, funeral merchandise, and cemetery property.
Whether you’re sharing plans for your own final
arrangements with loved ones, or encouraging loved ones to make and share their plans with you, the conversation about planning ahead is an important one that every family should have. While no one wants to think about their death or the death of a loved one any sooner than they must, having the conversation in advance alleviates the need for potentially more unpleasant or difficult conversations in the future.
To My Loved Ones:
I wanted to spare you as much anxiety, doubt, and confusion as possible at the time of my death, so in this section I have suggested some arrangements in advance.
This section includes vital statistics, funeral service guidelines, and cemetery requests, which are all important to the funeral director while assisting you to plan the details of my service.
The section also includes more personal material for eulogies, obituaries, and other remembrances.
Please accept these arrangements in the spirit they are given; with love, hoping to give you comfort and help you to remember the times we shared.
Signature: Date:
Witness: Date:
First Person to Be Notified Upon My Death:
Name:
Address:
Telephone:
Relationship:
Notes:
My Preferences for the Service:
Clergy or Officiant: or Funeral Home to Recommend
Name:
Contact Information:
Notes:
Personal Items:
Eyeglasses: Remove Leave On
Jewelry: Remove Leave On
Clothing: Purchase at the Time Selected
Pallbearers (six are required):
1. 4.
2. 5.
3. 6.
Musical Tributes:
Soloist:
Organist/Pianist:
Congregational Hymns:
Favorite Genre or Artist:
Community Organizations or Clubs That May Participate:
Vital Statistics About Me:
Name:
Address:
City:
State: Zip Code:
Social Security Number:
Date of Birth: Gender:
Place of Birth:
Occupation:
Employer:
Business/Industry:
Military Service:
Marital Status:
Maiden Name:
Name of Spouse:
Father's Name:
Mother's Name and Maiden name:
My Preference for the Location of the Visitation, Service, or Celebration of Life:
Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care Place of Worship
Address of Place of Worship:
Other
Address of Other Location:
My Preferences for the Service:
Clergy or Officiant: or Funeral Home to Recommend
Name:
Contact Information:
Notes:
Personal Items:
Eyeglasses: Remove Leave On
Jewelry: Remove Leave On
Clothing: Purchase at the Time Selected
Pallbearers (six are required):
1. 4.
2. 5.
3. 6.
Musical Tributes:
Soloist:
Organist/Pianist:
Congregational Hymns:
Favorite Genre or Artist:
Community Organizations or Clubs That May Participate:
Vital Statistics About Me:
Name:
Address:
City:
State: Zip Code:
Social Security Number:
Date of Birth: Gender:
Place of Birth:
Occupation:
Employer:
Business/Industry:
Military Service:
Marital Status:
Maiden Name:
Name of Spouse:
Father's Name:
Mother's Name and Maiden name:
My Preference for the Location of the Visitation, Service, or Celebration of Life:
Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care Place of Worship
Address of Place of Worship:
Other
Address of Other Location:
Information for Newspapers - A Guideline:
Place of Death: Date of Death:
Spouse, Widow, or Widower Of:
Married for Number of Years:
Children, Their Spouses, and Their Places of Residence:
Grandchildren, Their Spouses, and Their Places of Residence:
Siblings, Their Spouses, and Their Places of Residence:
Education:
Clubs and Lodges:
Military Service:
Special Interests, Hobbies and Pets, etc.:
Memorial Donations:
Cemetery Instructions:
The following are my wishes regarding my final resting place.
Name of Cemetery:
Address:
City:
State:
Property, Crypt, or Niche Owned?
If yes, specify location written on cemetery purchase agreement:
Final Resting Place: Earth Burial Mausoleum Interment Following Cremation Other
Marker or Monument:
Purchased: Yes No
Monument Company Name:
If No, Inscription Instructions:
Reception Location: Reception Suites Place of Worship Other
Reception to Follow Cemetery Reception to Follow Service
Notes:
Information for Newspapers - A Guideline:
Place of Death:
Date of Death:
Spouse, Widow, or Widower Of:
Married for Number of Years:
Children, Their Spouses, and Their Places of Residence:
Grandchildren, Their Spouses, and Their Places of Residence:
Siblings, Their Spouses, and Their Places of Residence:
Education:
Clubs and Lodges:
Military Service:
Special Interests, Hobbies and Pets, etc.:
Memorial Donations:
Cemetery Instructions:
The following are my wishes regarding my final resting place.
Name of Cemetery:
Address:
City:
State:
Property, Crypt, or Niche Owned?
If yes, specify location written on cemetery purchase agreement:
Final Resting Place: Earth Burial Mausoleum Interment Following Cremation Other
Marker or Monument:
Purchased: Yes No
Monument Company Name:
If No, Inscription Instructions:
Reception Location: Reception Suites Place of Worship Other
Reception to Follow Cemetery Reception to Follow Service
Notes:
Most people are familiar with the concept of burial, or “interment,” but may not be aware of the variety of options that are often available. Many cemeteries offer one or more of the following:
• Ground Burial: Burial of the casket below ground. A “vault” or “outer burial container” is required at many cemeteries.
• Mausoleum, or Community Mausoleum: A large building that provides above-ground entombments.
• Private Family Mausoleum: A small structure that provides above-ground entombment of, on average, two to twelve decedents.
• Companion Crypt: Permits two interments or entombments side-by-side.
• Private Family Estate: A small section of a cemetery usually bordered by gates, shrubbery, or other dividers, that allows for ground burial of several members of the same family.
B urial S ervices
A Personal Life Review for the Funeral and Eulogy:
I would like the following religious beliefs expressed:
Favorite poem, verse, or scripture:
Some significant accomplishments in my life:
One of my fondest memories:
One of the greatest inspirations in my life:
If I could live my life over again, I would change:
Favorite places:
Favorite color, flower, food, etc.:
I want my family to remember me for:
A message to my family and friends:
Special notes:
Whether you’re planning for yourself or for a loved one, the funeral service is one of the most important elements of a person’s final arrangements. With the opportunity for great personalization, the funeral service can truly reflect the uniqueness of the life it honors.
Regardless of whether you or your loved one have opted for burial or for cremation, the funeral or memorial service fills an important role. It can:
• Honor, recognize, and celebrate the life of the deceased.
• Allow friends and family to say their last goodbyes.
• Provide closure after the loss of a loved one.
• Allow friends to console the family of the loved one.
So, what is a funeral? In general terms, a funeral is a gathering of family and friends after the death of a loved one that allows them the opportunity to mourn, support each other, and pay tribute to the life of the deceased. It often consists of one or more of the following components:
BURIAL PLANS
When considering final arrangements for yourself or a loved one, one of the first decisions you might make is whether you prefer burial or cremation. This decision often influences other important considerations such as elements of the funeral service and type of cemetery property.
FUNERAL SERVICE
A formal or informal ceremony or ritual prior to burial, a funeral service often provides a sense of closure to family and friends. Although your faith or culture may dictate some elements of a funeral service, you may want to personalize other elements of the service. At a funeral service, a casket or urn is present, though you may choose to have the casket open or closed.
VISITATION, WAKE, OR VIEWING
Held the night before or immediately prior to the funeral service, the visitation - also called a wake or a viewing - provides a way for friends and acquaintances to pay respects and offer condolences to your family. As with the funeral service, you may want to decide if you want an open or closed casket should one be present.
MEMORIAL OR TRIBUTE SERVICE
At a memorial or tribute service, a casket or urn is usually not present.
Otherwise similar to a funeral or visitation, a memorial service gives family and friends a time to come together in your memory and celebrate your life.
GRAVESIDE SERVICE
As its name implies, a graveside service may be held at the gravesite just prior
There’s no one, right way to plan a funeral service, we believe that each funeral should be as unique and memorable as the life it honors.
When planning your own funeral service in advance, think about the way you want to be remembered. Perhaps you’d like a traditional funeral aligned with certain religious or ethnic customs? Or, a celebration focusing on great memories made with family and friends may be your preference. Maybe it’s a combination of both. You can have one service, or several, to honor your life.
Regardless of the service or services you choose to include in your funeral plan, you can personalize them in almost any way imaginable. For example, just consider the following questions:
• Where should the funeral be held? At your place of worship? At the funeral home?
• Who should officiate the service?
• Will your service adhere to the traditions of your faith or culture?
• Do you want a eulogy, and who should deliver it?
• Would you like an open or closed casket?
• What music should be played?
• What readings would you like to have read?
• Is there a special poem you’d like shared with the guests?
• Are there any special photographs or other memorabilia would you like displayed?
• Should the décor reflect a particular hobby or interest of yours, such as fishing, gardening, or music?
• Is there a particular emblem or engraving you want on your headstone or marker?
• Should there be refreshments served or a more elaborate party held after the service?
CEMETERY PROPERTY
In addition to funeral services and the choice of burial or cremation, cemetery property, or “interment rights,” is another consideration when you’re making final arrangements, either for yourself in advance, or for a loved one.
A common misconception that people often have when they purchase the right of interment in a cemetery is that they have purchased the land itself, when in fact what they have really purchased is the right to be interred (also
F uneral A rrangements
Whether you’re planning for yourself or for a loved one, the funeral service is one of the most important elements of a person’s final arrangements. With the opportunity for great personalization, the funeral service can truly reflect the uniqueness of the life it honors.
Regardless of whether you or your loved one have opted for burial or for cremation, the funeral or memorial service fills an important role. It can:
• Honor, recognize, and celebrate the life of the deceased.
• Allow friends and family to say their last goodbyes.
• Provide closure after the loss of a loved one.
• Allow friends to console the family of the loved one.
So, what is a funeral? In general terms, a funeral is a gathering of family and friends after the death of a loved one that allows them the opportunity to mourn, support each other, and pay tribute to the life of the deceased. It often consists of one or more of the following components:
BURIAL PLANS
When considering final arrangements for yourself or a loved one, one of the first decisions you might make is whether you prefer burial or cremation. This decision often influences other important considerations such as elements of the funeral service and type of cemetery property.
FUNERAL SERVICE
A formal or informal ceremony or ritual prior to burial, a funeral service often provides a sense of closure to family and friends. Although your faith or culture may dictate some elements of a funeral service, you may want to personalize other elements of the service. At a funeral service, a casket or urn is present, though you may choose to have the casket open or closed.
VISITATION, WAKE, OR VIEWING
Held the night before or immediately prior to the funeral service, the visitation - also called a wake or a viewing - provides a way for friends and acquaintances to pay respects and offer condolences to your family. As with the funeral service, you may want to decide if you want an open or closed casket should one be present.
MEMORIAL OR TRIBUTE SERVICE
At a memorial or tribute service, a casket or urn is usually not present.
Otherwise similar to a funeral or visitation, a memorial service gives family and friends a time to come together in your memory and celebrate your life.
GRAVESIDE SERVICE
As its name implies, a graveside service may be held at the gravesite just prior
There’s no one, right way to plan a funeral service, we believe that each funeral should be as unique and memorable as the life it honors.
When planning your own funeral service in advance, think about the way you want to be remembered. Perhaps you’d like a traditional funeral aligned with certain religious or ethnic customs? Or, a celebration focusing on great memories made with family and friends may be your preference. Maybe it’s a combination of both. You can have one service, or several, to honor your life.
Regardless of the service or services you choose to include in your funeral plan, you can personalize them in almost any way imaginable. For example, just consider the following questions:
• Where should the funeral be held? At your place of worship? At the funeral home?
• Who should officiate the service?
• Will your service adhere to the traditions of your faith or culture?
• Do you want a eulogy, and who should deliver it?
• Would you like an open or closed casket?
• What music should be played?
• What readings would you like to have read?
• Is there a special poem you’d like shared with the guests?
• Are there any special photographs or other memorabilia would you like displayed?
• Should the décor reflect a particular hobby or interest of yours, such as fishing, gardening, or music?
• Is there a particular emblem or engraving you want on your headstone or marker?
• Should there be refreshments served or a more elaborate party held after the service?
CEMETERY PROPERTY
In addition to funeral services and the choice of burial or cremation, cemetery property, or “interment rights,”
is another consideration when you’re making final arrangements, either for yourself in advance, or for a loved one.
A common misconception that people often have when they purchase the right of interment in a cemetery is that they have purchased the land itself, when in fact what they have really purchased is the right to be interred (also
F uneral A rrangements
When a death occurs, there are so many things to consider and decisions to make. These lists can help you navigate through them.
NOTIFY THESE PEOPLE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE:
• Your doctor who may provide a medical certificate of death or request an autopsy to determine the cause of death.
• The funeral home to arrange for the transfer of the deceased (usually this can be done within 1-2 hours although it may take longer to obtain a release from the hospital) and set an appointment with you to make further arrangements.
• Relatives, executor/executrix, and friends.
• Employers (the employer of the deceased and relatives who will need time off).
• Insurance agents (life, health, and accident).
• Religious, fraternal, civic and veterans’ organizations, and unions, if applicable.
• Lawyer and accountant.
SECURE THE VITAL STATISTICS OF DECEASED:
• Full legal name - other names must be identified by “Also Known As”
(AKA).
• Home address and telephone number.
• Name of business or employer’s name, address, and telephone number.
• Industry and occupation.
• Military service serial number.
• Date and place of birth.
• Citizenship.
• Father’s name and birthplace.
• Mother’s name, maiden name, and birthplace.
• Locate the will.
MEET WITH FUNERAL HOME
Decisions that need to be made:
• Clothing that the deceased will be buried or cremated in.
• Whether your loved one is to be buried, cremated, or entombed.
• The funeral director will ask if you have made any arrangements with a cemetery. If you have not done this, you will need to visit the cemetery.
• Service details: Would you like a visitation period, formal service, a reception?
• Whether a member of the clergy will be engaged for the service.
• Pallbearers, music, pictures, flowers, scripture, or other readings.
• Casket selection.
• If you would like a charity to receive donations in lieu of flowers.
• Whether you would prefer cremation or casket burial or entombment (if you haven’t already decided).
IF CREMATION:
• Would you like to use our chapel for a short service prior to the cremation?
• What type of urn would you prefer? (metal, wood, marble, ceramic, etc.)
• What type of final resting place you would prefer for your loved one? Choice of burial, above-ground niches, or scattering of cremated remains.
• Would you like other members of the family to be with your loved one in the future? This determines the size of the resting place.
Decisions to be made regarding burial of urn:
• What type of memorial do you prefer? Choice of bronze or granite marker set flush with the ground or an upright memorial etc.
• Would you like to protect your loved one’s urn with a concrete vault?
Decisions to be made regarding above-ground niches:
W hen D eath O ccurs
When a death occurs, there are so many things to consider and decisions to make. These lists can help you navigate through them.
NOTIFY THESE PEOPLE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE:
• Your doctor who may provide a medical certificate of death or request an autopsy to determine the cause of death.
• The funeral home to arrange for the transfer of the deceased (usually this can be done within 1-2 hours although it may take longer to obtain a release from the hospital) and set an appointment with you to make further arrangements.
• Relatives, executor/executrix, and friends.
• Employers (the employer of the deceased and relatives who will need time off).
• Insurance agents (life, health, and accident).
• Religious, fraternal, civic and veterans’ organizations, and unions, if applicable.
• Lawyer and accountant.
SECURE THE VITAL STATISTICS OF DECEASED:
• Full legal name - other names must be identified by “Also Known As”
(AKA).
• Home address and telephone number.
• Name of business or employer’s name, address, and telephone number.
• Industry and occupation.
• Military service serial number.
• Date and place of birth.
• Citizenship.
• Father’s name and birthplace.
• Mother’s name, maiden name, and birthplace.
• Locate the will.
MEET WITH FUNERAL HOME
Decisions that need to be made:
• Clothing that the deceased will be buried or cremated in.
• Whether your loved one is to be buried, cremated, or entombed.
• The funeral director will ask if you have made any arrangements with a cemetery. If you have not done this, you will need to visit the cemetery.
• Service details: Would you like a visitation period, formal service, a reception?
• Whether a member of the clergy will be engaged for the service.
• Pallbearers, music, pictures, flowers, scripture, or other readings.
• Casket selection.
• If you would like a charity to receive donations in lieu of flowers.
• Whether you would prefer cremation or casket burial or entombment (if you haven’t already decided).
IF CREMATION:
• Would you like to use our chapel for a short service prior to the cremation?
• What type of urn would you prefer? (metal, wood, marble, ceramic, etc.)
• What type of final resting place you would prefer for your loved one? Choice of burial, above-ground niches, or scattering of cremated remains.
• Would you like other members of the family to be with your loved one in the future? This determines the size of the resting place.
Decisions to be made regarding burial of urn:
• What type of memorial do you prefer? Choice of bronze or granite marker set flush with the ground or an upright memorial etc.
• Would you like to protect your loved one’s urn with a concrete vault?
Decisions to be made regarding above-ground niches:
W hen D eath O ccurs
• Would you like the niche to be inside a building or outside?
• What type of material would you like the niche to be constructed from? Granite or bronze are choices for outdoor niches and marble or glass are choices for indoor.
Decisions to be made regarding scattering:
• Would you like to be present for the scattering?
• Would you like a memorial to be placed in the area?
IF CASKET BURIAL:
• Would you like other members of the family to be with your loved one in the future? This determines the size of the lot.
• What type of memorial do you prefer? Choice of a marker set flush with the ground or an upright memorial.
• Would you like to protect your loved one’s casket with a concrete vault?
• What type of presentation would you prefer for the burial service? E.g. a tent canopy, chairs, mats leading to the grave etc.
If casket entombment:
• Would you like other members of the family to be with your loved one in the future? This determines the size of the crypt.
• What type of memorial package would you prefer?
Choice of flower vase and memorial lights etc.
PAY FOR:
• Funeral arrangements, including clergy, florist, and transportation.
• Cemetery and memorialization services.
• Current and urgent bills (i.e. mortgage, rent, taxes, telephone, etc.).
COLLECT DOCUMENTS:
(Required to establish rights for insurance, pensions, survivor benefits, ownership, etc.)
• Will
• Legal proof of age or birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Marriage license
• Citizenship papers
• Insurance policies
• Bank books
• Deeds
• Car ownership papers
• Income tax returns, receipts, or canceled checks
• Military discharge papers
TRANSPORTING THE DECEASED TO ANOTHER COUNTRY FOR BURIAL
We have extensive experience shipping caskets to other countries for burial. If you require international transportation, please advise us as soon as the death has occurred so we can begin making arrangements with the appropriate authorities. Please be advised that complying with the requirements of other jurisdictions takes time - a minimum of one week, often longer.
Writing an obituary is a difficult and emotional task.
First, you will need to gather information from family and
friends of the deceased about their childhood, education, career, and hobbies and interests. As well, speak to the funeral home to receive any important information on the date, time, and location of any funeral service, or other funeral-related events. Using this template will help make the process easier and will ensure you write a properly structured obituary.
Instructions: Replace all items in CAPITALS below with the appropriate information.
[GIVEN NAME] [MIDDLE NAME (AND NICKNAME)] [SURNAME], [AGE], of [CITY], [STATE], passed away on [DATE OF DEATH] in
[LOCATION OF DEATH].
[NAME] was born in [LOCATION OF BIRTH] to [PARENT’S NAMES]
on [DATE OF BIRTH]. He/she went to high school at [SCHOOL NAME]
and graduated in [YEAR]. He/she went on to earn a degree/certificate in [DEGREE TYPE] from [SCHOOL NAME]. He/she worked as a [JOB TYPE] for [COMPANY] for [NUMBER OF YEARS]. He/she enjoyed [ACTIVITIES/HOBBIES]. He/she received [AWARDS/HONORS] and was
involved in [CHARITIES/ORGANIZATIONS].
[NAME] is survived by his/her [RELATION], [NAME] of [CITY]. (List all survivors: spouse children, siblings, parents, grandchildren, nieces and nephews). He/she is preceded in death by his/her [RELATION], [NAME].
(List predeceased: spouse, parents, children and siblings.) Funeral service will be held at [LOCATION] on [DATE] at [TIME]
with Reverend [NAME] of [CHURCH] officiating. Burial will follow at [CEMETERY NAME], [CEMETERY LOCATION]. Visitation will be held at
[LOCATION] on [DATE] at [TIME]. [NAME OF FUNERAL HOME] will be handling the funeral arrangements.
Memorial donations may be made to [ORGANIZATION NAME], [MAILING ADDRESS]. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to
[ORGANIZATION/NAME].
[FINAL WORDS].
Remember most newspapers charge by the word, this template is good for getting all the information necessary in as few words possible. However, this template can be changed based on what you feel is necessary.
O bituaries
• Would you like the niche to be inside a building or outside?
• What type of material would you like the niche to be constructed from? Granite or bronze are choices for outdoor niches and marble or glass are choices for indoor.
Decisions to be made regarding scattering:
• Would you like to be present for the scattering?
• Would you like a memorial to be placed in the area?
IF CASKET BURIAL:
• Would you like other members of the family to be with your loved one in the future? This determines the size of the lot.
• What type of memorial do you prefer? Choice of a marker set flush with the ground or an upright memorial.
• Would you like to protect your loved one’s casket with a concrete vault?
• What type of presentation would you prefer for the burial service? E.g. a tent canopy, chairs, mats leading to the grave etc.
If casket entombment:
• Would you like other members of the family to be with your loved one in the future? This determines the size of the crypt.
• What type of memorial package would you prefer?
Choice of flower vase and memorial lights etc.
PAY FOR:
• Funeral arrangements, including clergy, florist, and transportation.
• Cemetery and memorialization services.
• Current and urgent bills (i.e. mortgage, rent, taxes, telephone, etc.).
COLLECT DOCUMENTS:
(Required to establish rights for insurance, pensions, survivor benefits, ownership, etc.)
• Will
• Legal proof of age or birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Marriage license
• Citizenship papers
• Insurance policies
• Bank books
• Deeds
• Car ownership papers
• Income tax returns, receipts, or canceled checks
• Military discharge papers
TRANSPORTING THE DECEASED TO ANOTHER COUNTRY FOR BURIAL
We have extensive experience shipping caskets to other countries for burial. If you require international transportation, please advise us as soon as the death has occurred so we can begin making arrangements with the appropriate authorities. Please be advised that complying with the requirements of other jurisdictions takes time - a minimum of one week, often longer.
Writing an obituary is a difficult and emotional task.
First, you will need to gather information from family and
friends of the deceased about their childhood, education, career, and hobbies and interests. As well, speak to the funeral home to receive any important information on the date, time, and location of any funeral service, or other funeral-related events. Using this template will help make the process easier and will ensure you write a properly structured obituary.
Instructions: Replace all items in CAPITALS below with the appropriate information.
[GIVEN NAME] [MIDDLE NAME (AND NICKNAME)] [SURNAME], [AGE], of [CITY], [STATE], passed away on [DATE OF DEATH] in
[LOCATION OF DEATH].
[NAME] was born in [LOCATION OF BIRTH] to [PARENT’S NAMES]
on [DATE OF BIRTH]. He/she went to high school at [SCHOOL NAME]
and graduated in [YEAR]. He/she went on to earn a degree/certificate in [DEGREE TYPE] from [SCHOOL NAME]. He/she worked as a [JOB TYPE] for [COMPANY] for [NUMBER OF YEARS]. He/she enjoyed [ACTIVITIES/HOBBIES]. He/she received [AWARDS/HONORS] and was
involved in [CHARITIES/ORGANIZATIONS].
[NAME] is survived by his/her [RELATION], [NAME] of [CITY]. (List all survivors: spouse children, siblings, parents, grandchildren, nieces and nephews). He/she is preceded in death by his/her [RELATION], [NAME].
(List predeceased: spouse, parents, children and siblings.) Funeral service will be held at [LOCATION] on [DATE] at [TIME]
with Reverend [NAME] of [CHURCH] officiating. Burial will follow at [CEMETERY NAME], [CEMETERY LOCATION]. Visitation will be held at
[LOCATION] on [DATE] at [TIME]. [NAME OF FUNERAL HOME] will be handling the funeral arrangements.
Memorial donations may be made to [ORGANIZATION NAME], [MAILING ADDRESS]. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to
[ORGANIZATION/NAME].
[FINAL WORDS].
Remember most newspapers charge by the word, this template is good for getting all the information necessary in as few words possible. However, this template can be changed based on what you feel is necessary.
O bituaries
Giving a meaningful, moving eulogy can be a nerve- wracking situation for even the most accomplished public speaker, but it need not be. How can you summarize somebody’s life in a few short minutes, while being both somber and funny at the same time? Writing and delivering a eulogy is a therapeutic tool to help deal with your grief and being chosen to give a eulogy is an honor and should be treated that way. Here are some tips for writing and delivering an eloquent and memorable eulogy.
GATHER INFORMATION
Talk with family members, close friends and co-workers to get important information on the deceased. Some important information to include in the eulogy is the persons family and other close relationships, their education/career, hobbies or special interests, places the person lived or traveled to, and any special accomplishments they had.
ORGANIZE YOUR THOUGHTS
Jot down your ideas by whatever means are most comfortable and familiar to you. Create an outline of your speech and fill in the information that you gathered about the person.
WRITE IT DOWN
This is not a toast at a wedding where you can make off-the-cuff remarks, and you should not ad-lib a eulogy.
Writing it all down allows you to include and remember every detail you wanted in your eulogy. When you bring a copy of your eulogy to the podium make sure it is easy to read, print it out in a large font, or if it is handwritten leave a few spaces between the lines. Keep in mind your time constraints; it’s best to keep things on the short side, especially if there are other speakers.
REVIEW AND REVISE
Your first draft will not be the last. When you think you are done, sleep on it and look it over in the morning when it is fresh again, that will be the time to make any necessary revisions.
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE
Read over your eulogy several times in order to become familiar with it. Practice in front of a mirror, read it over to some friends or family and have them give you feedback. Become familiar with your speech so you can recite it without making it look like you’re reading from a script. The more you practice the more comfortable you will be.
MAKE THEM LAUGH BUT BE RESPECTFUL
A funeral is not a roast, however, there is room for humor in your eulogy. Fondly remember a story about the person that everyone can relate to. Keep it appropriate;
there will be children and the elderly there that may not share the same sense of humor. Laughter is truly the best medicine, and some well-placed humor will help people cope, and will bring back fond memories of the deceased.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO SHOW EMOTION
Funerals are an extremely emotional event; nobody expects you not to shed a few tears. However, if you feel that you will be too strongly overcome by your emotions, have a back-up plan in place where someone you trust can deliver the eulogy for you. Give them a copy well in
Like everything in society, funeral etiquette and what is expected of you has evolved over time. As always common sense and good discretion is the best guide to proper funeral etiquette. Here are a few guidelines.
DO:
Express your condolences: It’s not easy to come up with the words to offer sympathy to someone who has just lost a loved one. You don’t need to be a poet, simply saying something like “I am sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family” is enough. If you can’t be at a funeral service in person, sending a card or leaving a message on a memorial website is a perfect way to express your sympathy.
Dress appropriately: Gone are the days of dressing up in all black for a funeral, but jeans and a t-shirt isn’t exactly acceptable either. You should still dress to impress and avoid any bright or flashy colors. Wearing what you would wear for a wedding or a job interview would be the most appropriate.
Sign the register book: The family will keep the register book as a memento for years. Be sure to include your full name and relationship to the deceased.
Give a gift: You don’t need to go overboard with your gift, after all it is the thought that counts. Suitable gifts include; flowers, a donation to the charity of the family’s choice, or you can make a commitment of service to the family at a later date. A commitment of service can be something as simple as cooking them dinner, or offering to clean up their house, any of the “little” things that may be neglected while a family deals with death. Make sure you provide a signed card so the family knows who gave the gift.
Keep in touch: You may feel that the family needs their space and time to grieve, but a simple phone call or note after the funeral lets the family know you care. With social networking leaving a quick note is as simple as a click of a mouse. The months following a death is when grieving friends and family need the most support.
DON’T:
Bring your cell phone: Your phone ringing will be highly inappropriate and will cause a disturbance, so turn any ringers or notifications off. Even better, leave your phone at home or in your car, a funeral is not the time to be texting or checking your messages.
Allow your children to be a distraction: From a very young age children are aware of death, and if the funeral is for someone that was close to them (grandparent, aunt, uncle) they should be given the option to attend. However, if it is not appropriate for your child to be there, and if you feel they will cause a commotion, leave them with a babysitter.
Be afraid to remember the good times: Funerals are obviously a time of grieving and mourning, but remembering the good times helps with the healing process. Sharing a funny and appropriate story is acceptable, and in some cases exactly what the deceased would have wanted.
Overindulge: If food or drink is served, do not over do it. Have a bite to eat before you go to the service, you do not want to be that guy parked at the snack table. If alcohol is served, limit yourself to one or two, do not become inebriated and risk doing something inappropriate.
E ulogies F uneral E tiquette
Giving a meaningful, moving eulogy can be a nerve- wracking situation for even the most accomplished public speaker, but it need not be. How can you summarize somebody’s life in a few short minutes, while being both somber and funny at the same time? Writing and delivering a eulogy is a therapeutic tool to help deal with your grief and being chosen to give a eulogy is an honor and should be treated that way. Here are some tips for writing and delivering an eloquent and memorable eulogy.
GATHER INFORMATION
Talk with family members, close friends and co-workers to get important information on the deceased. Some important information to include in the eulogy is the persons family and other close relationships, their education/career, hobbies or special interests, places the person lived or traveled to, and any special accomplishments they had.
ORGANIZE YOUR THOUGHTS
Jot down your ideas by whatever means are most comfortable and familiar to you. Create an outline of your speech and fill in the information that you gathered about the person.
WRITE IT DOWN
This is not a toast at a wedding where you can make off-the-cuff remarks, and you should not ad-lib a eulogy.
Writing it all down allows you to include and remember every detail you wanted in your eulogy. When you bring a copy of your eulogy to the podium make sure it is easy to read, print it out in a large font, or if it is handwritten leave a few spaces between the lines. Keep in mind your time constraints; it’s best to keep things on the short side, especially if there are other speakers.
REVIEW AND REVISE
Your first draft will not be the last. When you think you are done, sleep on it and look it over in the morning when it is fresh again, that will be the time to make any necessary revisions.
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE
Read over your eulogy several times in order to become familiar with it. Practice in front of a mirror, read it over to some friends or family and have them give you feedback. Become familiar with your speech so you can recite it without making it look like you’re reading from a script. The more you practice the more comfortable you will be.
MAKE THEM LAUGH BUT BE RESPECTFUL
A funeral is not a roast, however, there is room for humor in your eulogy. Fondly remember a story about the person that everyone can relate to. Keep it appropriate;
there will be children and the elderly there that may not share the same sense of humor. Laughter is truly the best medicine, and some well-placed humor will help people cope, and will bring back fond memories of the deceased.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO SHOW EMOTION
Funerals are an extremely emotional event; nobody expects you not to shed a few tears. However, if you feel that you will be too strongly overcome by your emotions, have a back-up plan in place where someone you trust can deliver the eulogy for you. Give them a copy well in
Like everything in society, funeral etiquette and what is expected of you has evolved over time. As always common sense and good discretion is the best guide to proper funeral etiquette. Here are a few guidelines.
DO:
Express your condolences: It’s not easy to come up with the words to offer sympathy to someone who has just lost a loved one. You don’t need to be a poet, simply saying something like “I am sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family” is enough. If you can’t be at a funeral service in person, sending a card or leaving a message on a memorial website is a perfect way to express your sympathy.
Dress appropriately: Gone are the days of dressing up in all black for a funeral, but jeans and a t-shirt isn’t exactly acceptable either. You should still dress to impress and avoid any bright or flashy colors. Wearing what you would wear for a wedding or a job interview would be the most appropriate.
Sign the register book: The family will keep the register book as a memento for years. Be sure to include your full name and relationship to the deceased.
Give a gift: You don’t need to go overboard with your gift, after all it is the thought that counts. Suitable gifts include; flowers, a donation to the charity of the family’s choice, or you can make a commitment of service to the family at a later date. A commitment of service can be something as simple as cooking them dinner, or offering to clean up their house, any of the “little” things that may be neglected while a family deals with death. Make sure you provide a signed card so the family knows who gave the gift.
Keep in touch: You may feel that the family needs their space and time to grieve, but a simple phone call or note after the funeral lets the family know you care. With social networking leaving a quick note is as simple as a click of a mouse. The months following a death is when grieving friends and family need the most support.
DON’T:
Bring your cell phone: Your phone ringing will be highly inappropriate and will cause a disturbance, so turn any ringers or notifications off. Even better, leave your phone at home or in your car, a funeral is not the time to be texting or checking your messages.
Allow your children to be a distraction: From a very young age children are aware of death, and if the funeral is for someone that was close to them (grandparent, aunt, uncle) they should be given the option to attend.
However, if it is not appropriate for your child to be there, and if you feel they will cause a commotion, leave them with a babysitter.
Be afraid to remember the good times: Funerals are obviously a time of grieving and mourning, but remembering the good times helps with the healing process. Sharing a funny and appropriate story is acceptable, and in some cases exactly what the deceased would have wanted.
Overindulge: If food or drink is served, do not over do it. Have a bite to eat before you go to the service, you do not want to be that guy parked at the snack table. If alcohol is served, limit yourself to one or two, do not become inebriated and risk doing something inappropriate.
