logo-image

What Do Funeral Directors Do?

August 16, 2024

It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home?


Today, there was a funeral. People cried. Tissues were crumpled and left on the tables. Flower petals fell to the floor. Now, the cleaning staff is making things tidy for the family who will be here tomorrow.


It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home?


Someone in our town died away from home, the funeral director is traveling many miles to bring him home and into the funeral home’s care. The light is on in anticipation of his safe return.


It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home?


Hospice called. The teacher who taught the funeral director -- and you -- in the third grade isn’t expected to make it through the night. He’s catching up on paperwork while he keeps vigil. Soon he’ll be called to the home and it will be his turn to take care of the teacher.


It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home?


There are computer problems. The video tribute file a family sent won’t work. We’re staying late to make it right for their service.


It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home?


It was a busy day today and we still need to notify Social Security and the Veteran’s Administration of Mr. Smith’s death.


It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home?


There’s been a terrible accident. We’re doing our best to make a loved one presentable so that they can say goodbye with dignity.


It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home?


The obituary the Jones’s gave us for their father is full of misspellings. We need to correct them and get it to the paper.


It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home?


We’re reviewing all of the details for tomorrow’s service. When will the celebrant arrive? Do we have drivers for the cars? Who will be the pallbearers?


It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home?


We’re checking tomorrow’s weather in case we need the umbrellas.


It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home?


The light is on because your neighbor, the funeral director, is pacing the floor. He can’t sleep. Tomorrow, he will oversee the service for his daughter’s classmate.


Sometimes death is just too close, even for him.



www.miltonshealy.com

December 20, 2024
When should you give food? What’s helpful without being overwhelming? How do you accept food graciously without having to buy a second refrigerator?
September 11, 2024
First, understand that what you wear to the funeral is much less important than actually going to the funeral or gathering. Don’t underestimate the value of your presence.
September 11, 2024
Memorial Day honors those who died in service, Armed Services Day honors those who currently serve. Veterans Day honors ALL veterans. Thank a Veteran on November 11th and be very proud and happy to go to bed tonight in the United States of America.
September 11, 2024
Don’t forget about listening. Listen to understand, not just to hear. Listen to show you care, not to judge. Listen with love, even when you’ve heard the story before.
September 11, 2024
We’ve all been there. Going to a funeral can be a little daunting, especially if it’s your first or if it’s been awhile since you attended one. Let’s talk a little bit about some of the terms you will hear and what you can expect in general.
More Posts
Share by: