Preparing for the Arrangement

When a loved one passes, the number of decisions and details can feel overwhelming. One of the best ways to ease that stress is to come prepared for the arrangement conference.

This guide will walk you through exactly what to bring and what information we’ll need—so you can focus on what matters most: honoring your loved one.

Please don’t worry if you don’t have everything. We will guide you every step of the way.

First, Take a Breath

You are not expected to have all the answers.

Our role is to walk with you through this process—gently, clearly, and at your pace. This list is simply meant to make things easier, not add pressure. If it overwhelms you to look over this list, please stop. Turn off your phone. Try to get some rest and we will see you tomorrow.

If you are someone who wants to be prepared, organized, and get a head start. Keep reading, this is for you.

Essential Information for the Death Certificate (Pennsylvania)

We will complete the death certificate together. If possible, please gather the following information:

• Full legal name
• Date of birth
• Social Security number
• Place of birth (city and state)
• Current address
• Marital status
• Spouse’s full name (including maiden name if applicable)
• Father’s full name
• Mother’s full name (including maiden name)
• Highest level of education completed
• Occupation and industry
• Military service (branch and years, if applicable)

Important Documents to Bring

If available, please bring:

• Social Security Number (card not required, just the number)
• Driver’s License or ID (Card not required, but the info is helpful)
• Insurance Policies
• Life insurance
• Burial or pre-need policies
• Veteran Discharge Papers (DD214)
• Required for military honors and VA benefits
• Pre-Arrangement Documents (if your loved one made prior plans)
• Cemetery Deed or Information (if applicable)

Photo for the Obituary

Please bring a recent or meaningful photo for the obituary.

• A clear, high-resolution photo works best
• Digital photos can be emailed or brought on a phone or USB
• We can help scan printed photos if needed

Clothing for the Viewing (If Applicable)

If you are choosing viewing, please bring:

• Long sleeve shirt or top
• Pants or dress
• Undergarments (including bra, if applicable)
• Socks
• Shoes (optional – many families choose not to include shoes)
• Jewelry (optional)

If you’re unsure what to choose, put your loved one in clothing they were comfortable in while living. If the person was not a suit wearing person, then it doesn't make sense to put them in a suit for the final viewing.

Information for the Obituary

It’s helpful to begin thinking about what you’d like included:

• Family members (living and deceased)
• Education and career
• Hobbies, interests, and personality
• Organizations, church involvement, military service
• Special memories or defining traits

Don’t worry about writing it perfectly—we will help you craft it. Even if you bring a bullet point list, we will help making sense of all the ideas you have.

Service Decisions to Begin Considering

You do not need final answers, but it can be helpful to think about:

• Burial or cremation
• Type of service (traditional, memorial, private, etc.)
• Location of services (church, funeral home, beach, woods, own home, etc.)
• Clergy or celebrant
• Music or readings
• Pallbearers
• Reception or gathering afterward

Additional Helpful Items

If available:

• Photos for memorial displays or tribute videos
• Any special items you would like included in the service
• Notes about your loved one’s wishes or preferences

A Final Thought

Every family comes to us with a different story, different needs, and different levels of preparation.

Whether you arrive with everything organized or nothing at all—we are here for you.

You don’t have to do this alone.

Need Help or Have Questions?

We are always available to guide you.

Call us anytime at 814-454-0156