We are delighted to welcome our Friends of WSAC, Marq Jeffrey, the Family Service Manager at Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home, to share valuable insights with our seniors.
With a rich history of serving families in Edmonton and surrounding areas since 1908, Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home has stood as a pillar of support for those navigating the challenging times of loss. In this informative piece, Marq offers essential tips on what individuals should understand and inquire about when selecting a funeral home.
As part of our commitment to providing meaningful and relevant information to our seniors community, we extend our gratitude to Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home for contributing to the well-being of our members.
What are the important things for a person to understand or ask before choosing a funeral home?
Marq Jeffrey, Family Service Manager at Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home
Choosing a funeral home is an important decision during a difficult time. Here are some important things to understand or ask before making your choice:
Location: Is the funeral home conveniently located for family and friends? Consider proximity to the cemetery or place of burial.
Services Offered: What services does the funeral home provide? Ensure they offer the specific services you need, such as embalming, cremation, transportation, or memorial services.
Reputation: Research the funeral home’s reputation. Read reviews, ask for recommendations from friends or family, or check with the Better Business Bureau for any complaints.
Licensing and Accreditation: Ensure the funeral home is licensed and accredited by relevant authorities. This ensures they adhere to professional standards.
Cost: Request a detailed price list and compare costs. Be clear about what’s included and any additional fees.
Personalization: Ask if the funeral home can accommodate your specific cultural or religious customs and preferences.
Pre-Planning: Inquire about pre-planning options if you want to arrange your own funeral or memorial service in advance.
Facilities: Visit the funeral home to assess the facilities, including viewing rooms, chapel, and reception areas. Ensure they are well-maintained and suitable for your needs.
Staff: Take time to visit the funeral home and staff to gauge their professionalism and willingness to address your questions and concerns.
Payment Options: Discuss payment options, including any potential payment plans or financial assistance programs.
Documentation: Ask for a written contract detailing all agreed-upon services and costs to avoid any misunderstandings later.
Grief Support: Inquire about the availability of grief support services or resources for you and your family.
Availability: Check if the funeral home can accommodate your preferred date and time for services.
Pre-existing Arrangements: If the deceased had pre-existing funeral arrangements, ensure the funeral home can honour them.
Transportation: If needed, confirm transportation services for the deceased to the funeral home and to the final resting place.
All of these will be very important to you when a death occurs so it is important to do your research now and make sure that your family will be secure and comfortable when it comes time to make final arrangements
Choosing a funeral home is a personal decision, so take your time to ensure it aligns with your needs and wishes. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek recommendations to make an informed choice.
Did you enjoy this guest blog post? Stay tuned for our 2024 Toonie Talk calendar for more engaging presentations.
Connelly-McKinley is a sanctuary of remembrance and tribute, where the departed are honored with utmost care and respect. Connelly-McKinley Funeral Homes offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs and preferences of grieving families. They provide assistance in planning funeral arrangements, memorial services, and other commemorative events. With a deep understanding of the emotional journey, Connelly-McKinley Funeral Homes strive to create a comforting environment and foster a sense of healing for all who seek their services.
