Senior Resources » Estate Planning » Funeral & Obituary

Funeral & Obituary

The Greatest Gift You Can Give Your Family? Planning Ahead for Funeral Services

Talking about funeral services isn’t easy, but it’s something we all face eventually. The good news? Planning ahead and understanding the process can turn an overwhelming moment into a meaningful one. Learn the steps to take, how to navigate decisions, and why pre-planning is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family.

funeral plans in an open planner with flower and sticky notes

How to Plan a Green Funeral

Green funeral options are becoming increasingly popular in the United States as more and more Americans are looking for environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional funerals. Here’s what you should know.


Coping With Loss: How to Approach Funeral Arrangements

If you’re an older adult coping with loss, this article is for you. Here’s how to plan a funeral while you work through your grief.

wom

How to Arrange Your Own Cremation Service

If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to go, cremation is an excellent choice, and one that’s become exceedingly popular in the United States. About 60% of Americans are now choosing cremation over a traditional burial, versus only around 20% in the mid-1990s.

metal urn cremation with funeral in the background blurred

How to Create an Online Memorial for a Departed Loved One

Thousands of families create online memorials for departed loved ones. Here’s what you should know.

candles

What to Do with Cremated Ashes

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to handling or disposing of your cremated remains after you’re gone. Your family can keep, bury or scatter them in a variety of imaginative ways that reflect your life and personality. Here are some different options to consider. 

scattering cremated ashes at sea

How to Sell Unwanted Burial Plots

Life changes along with the growing popularity of cremation in the US are causing more people to sell previously purchased burial plots they don’t intend to use any longer.

head stone with "in loving memory of dear mother"

How To Write a Meaningful Obituary

Writing an obituary is a deeply personal process that allows you to celebrate the life of a loved one while sharing their story with others. It serves as a heartfelt tribute, preserving their memory for generations to come. This quick guide will lead you through the process of creating a touching, yet informative, obituary.

How To Write a Meaningful Obituary cover photo

How to Close Social Media Accounts of a Deceased Loved One

Social media is part of many people’s daily lives, but when a person passes away their dormant accounts can become vulnerable to scammers who can hack into them and even steal your deceased loved one’s identity. 

memorialize social media for death of a loved one

Is it Okay to Not Have a Funeral?

A funeral is not necessarily for you; it’s for the ones you leave behind.

funeral

Can You Go to Heaven if You’re Cremated?

Cremation can be controversial for Christians. Traditionally, many Christians have chosen burial rather than cremation for bodies after death. We believe that human bodies are sacred and should be treated with respect. We may also have concerns about the resurrection of the dead without graves. If you’re grieving a loved one’s death or making funeral plans yourself, you may wonder, “Can you go to heaven if you’re cremated?”

Close up on a burial urn with yellow roses, in a bright funeral scene

How to Tap Underutilized Burial Benefits for Veterans

Most U.S. veterans (both combat and non-combat) who didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge are eligible for burial benefits.

veteran funeral

Should You Prepay Your Funeral?

Everything you need to know about preplanning funerals.

casket

How to Write an Obituary

Here are some tips and tools to help you write your loved one’s obituary.

candles

Simple and Inexpensive Final Farewells

With the average cost of a full-service funeral running around $11,000 today, many people are seeking simple ways to make their final farewell more affordable. Depending on how you want to go, here are several low-cost options to consider. 

moss covered tree with hearts

Free Senior Resources

Ultimate Guide to Retirement Communities
The Ultimate Guide to Retirement Communities
Get The Guide
complete guide to aging in place cover
Your Complete Guide to Aging in Place
Get The Guide
ultimate estate planning checklist and guide
Ultimate Estate Planning Checklist & Guide
Get The Guide
Guide to Adult Day Care
Get The Guide
Show this content while the ad loads.