What Is Involved In Planning A Funeral In Dundee?

In times of grief, the practical aspects of planning a funeral can add further stress to an already difficult situation, which is why the support and guidance of professional funeral directors can make a significant difference in ensuring a respectful and meaningful farewell for your loved one. As accredited members of the National Association of Funeral Directors and SAIF, our teams are trained and qualified to deliver an excellent service (having been recognised for our efforts on Three Best Rated in the “Best Funeral Directors in Dundee” category). Our teams across our Dundee and St Andrews branches are on-hand 24/7, from helping you to take the first steps of the process to the final ceremony, with further support also available after the funeral.

Key steps to take when planning a funeral in Dundee:

Step 1: Choosing a funeral director in Dundee

When someone passes, following the registration of their death, it’s advisable to begin thinking about funeral arrangements. To help alleviate some of the organisational burden, you can work with a funeral home and dedicated funeral director to ensure all aspects of the funeral are taken care of on time and the details of the day are planned in advance. 

Many people compare funeral directors in the Dundee area based on their location or proximity to their loved one’s final resting place; overall price of services, specific services offered, and the funeral directors’ reputation. 

Step 2: Deciding on the type of funeral

There are many different types of funerals available, so it is important to decide which one is right for your loved one and your family. Your funeral director will be able to walk you through the options, but some common types of funerals include traditional religious funerals, home funerals, celebrations of life, non-religious funerals, and green funerals. Additional options and examples of key differences are available in our blog post: https://jamesashton.co.uk/types-of-funerals-service-options/. 

Step 3: Opting for a burial or cremation

The choice between burial and cremation is key in funeral planning as it helps to determine the available options during the next steps. Your funeral director will guide you through this decision by discussing the following aspects:

• Religious or Cultural Preferences: Your family’s religious or cultural beliefs may be a determining factor in this decision, for example, a cremation may not be preferred if your loved one has had a knee or hip replacement as these will usually need to be removed prior to the cremation taking place which may be a more invasive process.
• Budget Considerations: Cremation services are often cheaper than burials depending on your location, however, your Funeral Directors can help provide you with financial advice (and recommend any relief you may be eligible for) as well as prepare a quote so you can compare your options.   

Step 4: Choosing a coffin, casket, and/or urn

Your choice of the type of funeral will usually also dictate the available coffins, caskets, and/or urns. There are many different types of options available for each, so it’s important to choose one that is right for your loved one, e.g. selecting a burial coffin or a cremation coffin (as well as choosing an urn for the ashes following the ceremony). 

What is the difference between a coffin and a casket? 

The main difference between the two is the shape: where coffins are wider at the top and taper towards the bottom (usually forming 6 sides), a casket is a uniform rectangular shape. Coffins also usually feature a hinged lid whereas a casket can have its lid fully removed or partially opened, e.g. for an open-casket funeral.

Step 5: Making selections for the funeral service

The funeral service can last most of the day depending on the arrangements and it’s a time to allow close friends and family space to grieve and time to say their goodbyes, as well as celebrate the life of the person who has passed away. A wake may also be held before the service, and a reception may be held after, so these elements also need to be considered. 

For this reason, it’s important to take into account the following for the wake, service, and reception as applicable:

• The date and times 
• Route to the venue from the funeral home
• Additional locations/venues (if appropriate)  
• Transport between locations (if appropriate) 
• The order of service
• Music, readings, and speeches 
• Flower arrangements 
• Headstones, monuments, and other burial markers (if appropriate) 

Your dedicated funeral director will be able to help you with all aspects of arranging the funeral service and additional services for the day.

Step 6: Notifying friends and family 

Once you have arranged all of the details of the funeral, you will be able to inform friends and family, as well as place obituary notices in newspapers and online platforms (though please note this is optional and there is no legal requirement to do so). You can notify mourners of the funeral by sending out invitations that include the date, time, and location of the service. It’s also recommended to include a mention of the type of service as this can help ensure attendees are aware of any cultural or religious factors relating to the running of the service.

Speak to our team at your nearest James Ashton & Son branch:

1, 1a Cardean Street, Dundee, Angus, DD4 6PS

188 High Street, Lochee, Dundee, Angus, DD2 3DN

132 – 136 Hilltown, Dundee, Angus, DD3 7BJ

56 Largo Road, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8RP (Macgregors)

Planning a funeral can be a daunting task, but it is important to remember that you are not alone and we’re here to answer all your questions. Your dedicated James Ashton & Son Funeral Director will be there to help you along every step of the way! They will work with you to create a funeral that is personal and meaningful, and they will be there to offer support to you and your family during this difficult time.