The funeral service is a way for everyone to come together and bid their final farewell to a loved one. Most services are performed according to religious tradition while some are customized according to the family’s preferences. Once the formal ceremonies are over, families have their own plans. At Charles J. O’Shea Funeral Home, we believe this is what you can expect after a funeral:

1. A Small Reception

Once the funeral director announces the funeral service has ended, family members often met up for a small reception at home or a restaurant. This reception is an invite-only event for close friends and family. They have a meal together, discuss what needs to be done going forward, and comfort one another. This reception helps grieving family members recover from the funeral service and regain some emotional equilibrium.

2. Urgent Financial Matters

After resting and recovering for a few days, heirs of the deceased’s estate must start working on urgent financial matters. They need to pay all pending bills, clear the rent, call banks to deal with accounts, send word to credit card companies, and make sure there are no outstanding payments. Most utility service providers will offer some leeway but it is best to make sure nothing is outstanding.

3. Handle the Paperwork

Family members have a mountain of paperwork to go through after the funeral service is done. They need to look at legal documents, make sure all assets are dispersed according to the deceased’s wishes, cancel cards, transfer money from accounts, transfer property deeds, etc. An experienced professional or an estate lawyer can help you with this process. It may take a few weeks or months to tie up all of the loose ends. 

If you want to know more about cremation or funeral services, don't hesitate to contact us at Charles J. O’Shea Funeral Home. We’ll be happy to answer your questions.