Funeral Arrangements and Directing
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Mortuary Science course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Funeral Arrangements and Directing #
Funeral Arrangements and Directing
Funeral arrangements and directing in the context of mortuary science refers to… #
This includes coordinating with the family of the deceased, making logistical arrangements, and ensuring that the service runs smoothly.
Arrangement Conference #
Arrangement Conference
An arrangement conference is a meeting between the funeral director and the fami… #
During this conference, decisions are made regarding the type of service, burial or cremation, and other specific requests from the family.
Embalming #
Embalming
Embalming is the process of preserving a deceased body by disinfecting and sanit… #
This is often done to improve the appearance of the deceased for viewing during the funeral service.
Casket Selection #
Casket Selection
The casket selection process involves choosing a burial container for the deceas… #
Funeral directors typically present a range of casket options to the family based on their preferences and budget.
Grave Site Preparation #
Grave Site Preparation
Grave site preparation involves the physical preparation of the burial site befo… #
This may include digging the grave, lining it with a vault or liner, and ensuring that the area is properly maintained.
Floral Arrangements #
Floral Arrangements
Floral arrangements are bouquets or wreaths of flowers that are often displayed… #
These arrangements can be customized based on the preferences of the family.
Obituary #
Obituary
An obituary is a written announcement of a person's death that typically include… #
Obituaries are often published in local newspapers or online.
Death Certificate #
Death Certificate
A death certificate is an official document issued by a medical professional or… #
This document is required for legal purposes, such as obtaining a burial permit or settling the deceased's estate.
Funeral Procession #
Funeral Procession
A funeral procession is a line of vehicles that travels from the funeral home or… #
This procession is typically led by the hearse carrying the casket.
Memorial Service #
Memorial Service
A memorial service is a gathering held to honor and remember the deceased withou… #
This type of service may include speeches, music, and other tributes to celebrate the life of the deceased.
Pre #
Need Planning
Pre #
need planning involves making arrangements for one's own funeral before death occurs. This allows individuals to make decisions about their final wishes and relieve their family members of the burden of planning after their passing.
Reception #
Reception
A reception is a gathering held after the funeral service to allow family and fr… #
This may include food, drinks, and socializing.
Viewing #
Viewing
A viewing, also known as a visitation or wake, is a time for family and friends… #
This allows loved ones to pay their respects and say goodbye in a more intimate setting.
Direct Cremation #
Direct Cremation
Direct cremation is a type of cremation service in which the deceased is cremate… #
This option is typically less expensive than traditional burial and allows for more flexibility in memorialization.
Green Burial #
Green Burial
A green burial is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial… #
This may involve biodegradable caskets, natural burial grounds, and minimal use of chemicals.
Home Funeral #
Home Funeral
A home funeral is a type of funeral service in which the deceased is cared for a… #
This option allows for a more personal and intimate farewell.
Memorial Society #
Memorial Society
A memorial society is a nonprofit organization that provides information and res… #
These societies often advocate for consumer rights and transparency in the funeral industry.
Outer Burial Container #
Outer Burial Container
An outer burial container, also known as a vault or grave liner, is a container… #
This helps maintain the integrity of the cemetery grounds.
Prepaid Funeral Plan #
Prepaid Funeral Plan
A prepaid funeral plan is an arrangement in which individuals pay in advance for… #
This can help alleviate financial and emotional stress for family members.
Urns #
Urns
Urns are containers used to hold the cremated remains of a deceased person #
These containers come in a variety of styles and materials, allowing families to choose one that reflects the personality and preferences of the deceased.
Veterans Benefits #
Veterans Benefits
Veterans benefits are government #
provided benefits available to eligible military veterans to help cover the costs of funeral services, burial, and other related expenses. These benefits may include financial assistance, burial flags, and military honors.
Aftercare Services #
Aftercare Services
Aftercare services are resources and support provided to the family of the decea… #
This may include counseling, support groups, and memorial activities.
Body Donation #
Body Donation
Body donation is the act of donating one's body to medical schools or research i… #
This option allows individuals to contribute to medical research and education after death.
Celebrant #
Celebrant
A celebrant is a trained professional who conducts personalized and non #
religious funeral or memorial services. Celebrants work closely with the family to create a meaningful ceremony that reflects the life and values of the deceased.
Disposition #
Disposition
Disposition refers to the final resting place of the deceased, whether through b… #
This decision is often guided by cultural, religious, and personal beliefs about the afterlife and the physical body.
Exhumation #
Exhumation
Exhumation is the process of removing a deceased person's body from its burial s… #
This is a complex and sensitive procedure that requires permission from the appropriate authorities.
Funeral Director #
Funeral Director
A funeral director is a licensed professional who manages and coordinates all as… #
Funeral directors work closely with the family of the deceased to plan and execute the service according to their wishes.
Memorialization #
Memorialization
Memorialization refers to the ways in which the memory of the deceased is preser… #
This may include physical monuments, online memorials, charitable donations, or other forms of remembrance.
Obituary Writing #
Obituary Writing
Obituary writing involves composing a written announcement of a person's death t… #
Obituary writers work with the family to create a meaningful tribute to the deceased.
Pallbearers #
Pallbearers
Pallbearers are individuals selected to carry the casket of the deceased during… #
These individuals are typically close friends or family members who have the strength and emotional fortitude to perform this solemn duty.
Restorative Art #
Restorative Art
Restorative art is the practice of enhancing the appearance of a deceased person… #
This skill is often used in cases where the body has suffered trauma or decomposition.
Thanatology #
Thanatology
Thanatology is the study of death and dying, including the psychological, social… #
Thanatologists work to understand and support individuals and communities as they navigate the grieving process.
Transfer of Remains #
Transfer of Remains
The transfer of remains refers to the transportation of the deceased from the pl… #
This process may involve coordination with transportation providers and compliance with legal regulations.
Visitation Room #
Visitation Room
A visitation room, also known as a viewing room, is a designated space within a… #
This room is typically set up with seating, flowers, and the casket.
Death Doula #
Death Doula
A death doula, also known as an end #
of-life doula or death midwife, is a trained professional who provides emotional, spiritual, and practical support to individuals and their families as they approach death. Death doulas help facilitate a peaceful and dignified dying process.
Cremains #
Cremains
Cremains are the ashes or remains of a deceased person after they have been crem… #
These remains are typically placed in an urn or other container and may be scattered, buried, or kept by the family as a memorial.
Crematory #
Crematory
A crematory is a facility equipped to perform cremations on deceased individuals #
Crematories adhere to strict regulations and guidelines to ensure that the cremation process is conducted safely and respectfully.
Death Notice #
Death Notice
A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's death that is published in… #
Unlike an obituary, a death notice typically includes basic information such as the name of the deceased, date of death, and funeral arrangements.
Disposition Permit #
Disposition Permit
A disposition permit is a legal document issued by the local government authoriz… #
Funeral directors must obtain this permit before proceeding with the final disposition of the body.
End #
of-Life Planning
End #
of-life planning involves making decisions and arrangements for one's own death and funeral in advance. This process allows individuals to communicate their wishes to loved ones, relieve financial burdens, and ensure that their final wishes are honored.
Funerary Customs #
Funerary Customs
Funerary customs are cultural or religious practices and rituals surrounding dea… #
These customs vary widely across different societies and may include ceremonies, clothing, music, and symbolic gestures.
Funeral Home #
Funeral Home
A funeral home, also known as a funeral parlor or mortuary, is a facility where… #
Funeral homes provide a range of services to support families during the grieving process.
Funeral Insurance #
Funeral Insurance
Funeral insurance, also known as burial insurance or final expense insurance, is… #
This insurance can provide financial security for the insured and their family.
Funeral Registry Book #
Funeral Registry Book
A funeral registry book, also known as a guest book, is a book placed at the ent… #
This book serves as a keepsake for the family.
Funeral Trust #
Funeral Trust
A funeral trust is a financial arrangement in which funds are set aside to cover… #
These funds are held in a trust account until they are needed, ensuring that the deceased's final wishes can be carried out.
Green Cremation #
Green Cremation
Green cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is an eco #
friendly alternative to traditional cremation that uses water and alkaline chemicals to break down the body. This process produces fewer emissions and preserves more bone fragments.
Inheritance Tax #
Inheritance Tax
Inheritance tax is a tax levied on the estate of a deceased person before the as… #
This tax is based on the total value of the estate and may vary depending on the relationship between the deceased and the heir.
Mortuary Science #
Mortuary Science
Mortuary science is the study and practice of caring for the deceased, including… #
Professionals in the field of mortuary science are trained to provide compassionate and respectful care to the deceased and their families.
Postmortem Care #
Postmortem Care
Postmortem care, also known as after #
death care, involves preparing the deceased body for burial or cremation with dignity and respect. This may include washing and dressing the body, applying cosmetics, and arranging the body for viewing.
Pre #
Arranged Funeral
A pre #
arranged funeral is a funeral service planned and paid for in advance by the deceased or their family. This allows individuals to make decisions about their final arrangements, relieve financial burdens on their loved ones, and ensure their wishes are honored.
Transfer Service #
Transfer Service
A transfer service is a company that specializes in transporting deceased indivi… #
These services ensure that the deceased is handled with care and respect during transportation.
Urn Garden #
Urn Garden
An urn garden is a dedicated area within a cemetery or memorial park where crema… #
This option provides a peaceful and serene environment for families to visit and remember their loved ones.
Advanced Directives #
Advanced Directives
Advanced directives are legal documents that outline a person's wishes for medic… #
These directives provide guidance to healthcare providers and family members.
Burial Permit #
Burial Permit
A burial permit is a legal document issued by the local government authorizing t… #
Funeral directors must obtain this permit before proceeding with the burial of the deceased.
Casket Spray #
Casket Spray
A casket spray is a large floral arrangement placed on top of the casket during… #
This arrangement is typically chosen by the immediate family and may include a variety of flowers and greenery.
Death Doula #
Death Doula
A death doula, also known as an end #
of-life doula or death midwife, is a trained professional who provides emotional, spiritual, and practical support to individuals and their families as they approach death. Death doulas help facilitate a peaceful and dignified dying process.
Embalming Fluid #
Embalming Fluid
Embalming fluid is a chemical solution used during the embalming process to pres… #
This fluid slows the decomposition process and helps maintain the appearance of the deceased for viewing.
Funeral Processional #
Funeral Processional
A funeral processional is the formal march or procession of vehicles that accomp… #
This procession is often led by the hearse carrying the casket.
Grave Marker #
Grave Marker
A grave marker, also known as a headstone or tombstone, is a permanent marker pl… #
Grave markers may include the name, birth and death dates, and personalized inscriptions.
Memorial Fund #
Memorial Fund
A memorial fund is a fund set up to honor the memory of a deceased person by sup… #
These funds may be used to provide scholarships, support charitable activities, or fund research.
Obituary Template #
Obituary Template
An obituary template is a pre #
formatted document that provides a structure for composing an obituary. This template typically includes sections for the deceased's biographical information, family members, funeral arrangements, and any special messages or requests.
Palliative Care #
Palliative Care
Palliative care is specialized medical care that focuses on providing relief fro… #
This type of care aims to improve the quality of life for patients and their families.
Religious Rites #
Religious Rites
Religious rites are rituals and ceremonies performed by a specific faith or beli… #
These rites may include prayers, hymns, readings, and other sacred practices.
Thanatophobia #
Thanatophobia
Thanatophobia is an intense fear of death or dying that can cause significant di… #
Individuals with thanatophobia may avoid discussions about death, funerals, or other related topics due to their fear.
Transfer Case #
Transfer Case
A transfer case is a specialized container used to transport the deceased from o… #
This case ensures that the body is handled with care and respect during transportation.
Vault Liner #
Vault Liner
A vault liner, also known as a burial vault, is a protective container placed ar… #
This liner helps maintain the structural integrity of the burial site.
Afterlife Beliefs #
Afterlife Beliefs
Afterlife beliefs are cultural, religious, or spiritual beliefs about what happe… #
These beliefs often shape funeral customs, burial practices, and memorialization rituals in different societies.
Body Transport Service #
Body Transport Service
A body transport service is a company that specializes in transporting deceased… #
These services ensure that the body is handled with care and respect during transportation.
Casket Rental #
Casket Rental
Casket rental is an option in which a funeral home provides a casket for use dur… #
This option can be more affordable than purchasing a casket.
Death Certificate Translation #
Death Certificate Translation
Death certificate translation is the process of translating a death certificate… #
This translation ensures that the information on the certificate is accurately understood by all parties involved.
Embalming Table #
Embalming Table
An embalming table is a specialized work surface used by embalmers to prepare th… #
This table is equipped with drainage systems, lighting, and other tools necessary for the embalming process.
Funeral Attire #
Funeral Attire
Funeral attire refers to the clothing worn by mourners attending a funeral servi… #
Traditional funeral attire typically includes dark colors, conservative styles, and respectful accessories such as veils or hats.
Funeral Program #
Funeral Program
A funeral program is a printed booklet or pamphlet distributed at a funeral serv… #
Funeral programs serve as a keepsake for attendees.
Funeral Repast #
Funeral Repast
A funeral repast, also known as a funeral reception or wake, is a gathering held… #
This event allows mourners to offer condolences and support to the family.
Green Funeral #
Green Funeral
A green funeral is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial… #
This may include natural burial, biodegradable caskets, and eco-friendly funeral practices.
Interment Rights #
Interment Rights
Interment rights refer to the legal rights granted to an individual or family to… #
These rights may include the right to bury multiple family members in the same plot or to customize the gravesite.
Mausoleum Crypt #
Mausoleum Crypt