Free checklist
Funeral planning checklist: what to gather before you meet
You do not need all of this to start. But every item you collect now is one less thing your family has to search for later. Print this page, or ask Bruce to mail you a copy.
Facts for the death certificate
A California death certificate asks for personal details that relatives often do not know. Write them down once:
- Full legal name, and any other names used
- Date and place of birth (city, state or country)
- Social Security number
- Father's full name and mother's full maiden name, with their birthplaces
- Highest level of education
- Usual occupation and the kind of business or industry
- Marital status, and the full name of a spouse or partner
- Any service in the U.S. Armed Forces
Documents to locate
- Military discharge papers (DD-214), since veterans may be eligible for certain burial benefits
- Any existing funeral or cemetery agreements, and the deed or certificate for any space you already own
- Life insurance policies, with the company name and policy number
- Where your will or trust is kept, and who your executor or trustee is
Wishes to write down
- Type of service, and where you would like it held
- Clergy or officiant, readers, speakers, and pallbearers
- Music, scripture, poems, and photographs to display
- Your resting place, and what the memorial should say
- Clothing, jewelry, and anything to be placed with you
- Charities or causes for memorial gifts
- The people who should be told first
Notes for your obituary
Many families find this the hardest part to write in a hurry. Jot down where you grew up, your work, your faith community, your service and clubs, and the names of the family you want mentioned.