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Arranging the funeral without funeral directors If the person dies at home, the district nurse could be asked to complete last offices, or the family may wish to do so. This must be done fairly soon after the death. The body is laid out on the back with hands at the side, the eyes are closed (cotton wool on the eyelids will help), the jaw supported by a pillow, and all the natural outlets of the body plugged with cotton wool. After the doctor has certified the cause of death, the body can be washed, dressed in whatever clothes are desired and hair brushed. If the body is to remain at home it is advisable for the room to remain cool. If the person dies in hospital the family will need to collect the body from the mortuary. It may be possible for the arrangements for the funeral to be made direct with the crematorium or cemetery and minister of religion if desired. A coffin can be purchased from the undertaker or made. A large estate car or van will be needed to transport the coffin, and four to six people to carry it. Some funeral directors will assist in do-it-yourself funerals by supplying a simple coffin and dealing with the documentation. Select an option from below, or follow the 'next >>' and '<< previous' links to navigate through all the options. |
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