by Buffy Cranford

Created on: November 05, 2009   Last Updated: December 09, 2009

The role of Funeral Director has evolved from its undertaker roots in the old west. Undertaker was the title given to the individual who shouldered the responsibility of preparing a departed loved one for burial. Modern Funeral Directors continue this tradition, but perform many other duties once handled by family, friends and clergy.

In numerous states, a Funeral Director is also a licensed mortician, providing a vital service to our society as they care for families during a difficult and vulnerable time. Many funeral homes are family-run businesses, but corporate funeral homes are growing as younger family members opt for different careers and leave the family business.

Funeral Directors are involved in every detail of the planning and preparation for a funeral. From the transportation of the body to the funeral home to the death certificates, the Funeral Director handles all of the details so grieving loved ones can find peace in the funeral process.

After a loved one passes, the family meets with the Funeral Director and chooses a casket and vault or urn. During this meeting, the entire funeral can be planned, complete with flower arrangements, selecting a guestbook, thank you notes, pallbearers, music, clergy, and a grave marker. The Funeral Director arranges payments to third party vendors like the company pouring the vault, musicians and clergy. Many funeral homes provide facilities for the funeral luncheon, and can create video tributes of your loved ones from family photos.

Following these preparations, the director prepares your loved one for the funeral through embalming or cremation. The director contacts the cemetery to arrange for the digging of the grave, and communicates with the vault company to ensure the correct vault is in place prior to the service. The Funeral Director contacts the clergy member and relays information related to the time and location of the service, including any scripture selections chosen by the family. If the family has requested musicians, the Funeral Director communicates with the musicians to make those arrangements. The Funeral Director files the death certificate, sends the obituary to the news paper and often will contact the life or pre-need insurance provider to inform them of the death.

For the funeral, the Funeral Director provides transportation to the service and graveside. They transport the flowers from the service to the graveside, and in many situations, drop off donated flowers at area nursing homes or hospitals. Many funeral homes and directors now not only handle the funeral arrangements (embalming, casketing, dressing, make-up) but are the liaison for all related arrangement details.

During a period which responsibility and grief can be overwhelming, the Funeral Director will guide you during the funeral process with professionalism and empathy.

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