Planning a Funeral

What should I do when a loved one passes away?
When a loved one passes away, first notify the necessary authorities, and then contact us at Mercy McGowan Funeral Home. We’re here to guide you through the next steps and help you make arrangements.

What if the death occurs out of town or abroad?
If your loved one passes away out of town or abroad, contact us immediately. We have experience coordinating with local authorities and funeral homes to bring your loved one back home, handling all necessary arrangements and paperwork.

What is the difference between a funeral and a memorial service?
A funeral service typically involves the presence of the deceased's body and may include a viewing or visitation. A memorial service is held without the body present and can take place any time after the death.

What should I bring to the initial meeting with the funeral director?
You should bring any documentation related to pre-arrangements, a recent photograph of the deceased, clothing for the deceased, and information for the obituary (e.g., names of family members, life achievements).

How do I pre-plan a funeral?
Pre-planning a funeral lets you make arrangements in advance, reducing stress on your family. Schedule a consultation with our funeral director to discuss your wishes and create a plan that reflects your preferences.

Costs and Payments

How much does a funeral cost?
The cost of a funeral can vary widely based on the services and products selected. We provide a general price list to all families and can help you tailor a service that fits your budget.

Additional Questions

How can I obtain a copy of the death certificate?
We will assist you in obtaining the necessary copies of the death certificate. Typically, we order these from the local health department on your behalf.

Can I personalize a funeral service?
Yes, you can. We encourage families to make the funeral service personal and meaningful. Choose music, readings, and mementos that reflect your loved one’s life.

What does the funeral director do?
A funeral director helps families through the loss of a loved one, providing support and handling all the necessary arrangements for the cremation, burial, and memorial services. They take on various roles to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Here are some of the main tasks a funeral director performs:

• Transporting the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home
• Preparing the deceased, including embalming, casketing, and cosmetology
• Meeting with the family to plan the funeral service
• Filing necessary certificates, permits, and forms
• Getting copies of the death certificate
• Coordinating with the cemetery or crematory
• Writing and publishing the obituary
• Arranging for clergy, music, flowers, transportation, pallbearers, and any special services
• Directing and managing the funeral service and procession
• Helping the family with claims, such as Social Security, VA insurance, and providing grief counseling referrals