Hialeah: Unplanned Death & Funeral Decisions

HIALEAH – When death occurs unexpectedly and without pre-arranged funeral plans, families face difficult decisions during an overwhelming time. They must determine the deceased's preference for burial or cremation and select a service to honor their memory.

The immediate aftermath of a loss can be daunting, but families do not need to make all decisions at once. The first step involves gathering essential personal information about the deceased, including their full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Locating important documents like a will, insurance papers, or any notes detailing funeral wishes is also advisable. Friends and other relatives may possess valuable information about the person's preferences.

Contacting a local funeral home is the next step. A funeral director can guide families through the process, assisting with transportation, necessary paperwork, permits, and death certificates. Bernardo Garcia Funeral Homes, for example, offers burial and cremation services and can explain options to families.

Families often face the significant decision between burial and cremation. Without explicit instructions, they may need to consider the deceased's likely wishes, recalling past conversations or family traditions. Funeral directors can explain the details and costs associated with each service, including traditional funerals with burial, cremation with a memorial service, or direct burial and cremation options.

The type of service can be tailored to the individual. Families can opt for a viewing followed by a service, a small gathering, or a memorial service. The focus should be on creating a farewell that reflects the person's life, incorporating personal touches like favorite music, shared stories, or photographs.