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Preplanning checklist

What to gather before you talk.

You do not need everything on this list before your first call. Most families don’t. It simply makes things smoother.

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Personal information

Full legal name, including maiden or previous names
Date and place of birth
Parents’ names; spouse’s name
Military service, branch, and discharge papers (DD-214), if any
Church, minister, or spiritual affiliation
Memberships: lodges, clubs, organizations

Service wishes

Burial, cremation, graveside, or celebration of life
Preferred funeral home
Open or closed casket; casket or urn preferences
Music, hymns, and readings
Flowers, photos, and special requests
Pallbearers, and who should be called first

Documents to locate

Birth and marriage certificates
Will or trust (Duane does not write wills; that is a conversation with an attorney)
Power of attorney and advance directive
Any existing cemetery property or arrangements
A list of accounts so no one has to hunt through drawers

Simple steps that help

Write down who to call. One page is enough.
Say where your important papers are kept.
Talk with your family about what you want.
Put your funeral wishes in writing with a funeral home.

Ready when you are

Most first calls take about 15 minutes. No pressure, no obligation.

Call (919) 822-2010 Book a private appointment

Not sure where to start? Need help now?

Tell Duane a little about your situation. He will reply personally by email or phone, even if you are outside North Carolina.

I need help Call (919) 822-2010