Holding a funeral or memorial service for your loved one is a positive first step in the grieving process. Family members and friends get a chance to say their goodbyes and, at the same time, they get to share strong feelings with one another.
In the days, weeks, and months following the service, people continue to need others to lean on for understanding, encouragement, and guidance. For that reason, many local and national support groups have formed. These groups provide a common place and a comforting environment for expressing emotions through each phase of the grieving process. To learn more, click on the links above or discuss grief counseling and support options with your funeral director.
For a complimentary Aftercare Guidebook, please .
We have provided you a checklist of items that you may need to take care of after the passing of your loved one.
Family Follow-up Checklist
Notify family lawyer of death and request original will.
Notify accountant/financial advisor and request documents.
Contact the Social Security Administration regarding benefits.
Notify life insurance companies to determine benefits and cancel polices.
Contact financial institutions about accounts and safety deposit box.
Contact investment institutions about accounts.
Contact mortgage company about mortgage loans.
Contact credit card companies to switch/cancel card.
Contact employer to notify associates and inquire about benefits.
Contact health care providers (hospice, nursing care, physicians)
Contact auto insurance agent to cancel coverage and/or change policy.
Contact auto loan/lease companies to reconcile accounts.
Contact utilities to cancel or change billing status.
Contact service providers (lawn care, cable TV, pest control, etc) to cancel service or change billing status.
Cancel or change periodical subscriptions (magazines, newsletters, etc)
Cancel memberships.
Remove name/address from mailing and telemarketing.
Additional Grief Resources
Selected Independent Funeral Homes has created an online community for those coping with loss. You can view some helpful videos on their YouTube channel here: http://www.youtube.com/WhyWeGather
Griefwords Library
By Dr. Alan Wolfelt, Ph.D.
Grief: General
These thoughtful articles provide guidance and direction for anyone touched by grief.
Someone you love has died. You are now faced with the difficult, but important, need to mourn. Mourning is the open expression of your thoughts and feelings regarding the death and the person who died. It is an essential part of healing. The following articles provide many practical suggestions to help you move toward healing in your unique grief journey.
Children and teenagers have special needs following the death of a friend or family member. The following articles provide wonderful insight in helping children and teens understand and express their grief.
The days following the death of a loved one can be filled with sadness and confusion. The following articles can help you understand the importance of the rituals surrounding death.
