Choosing a Funeral Director

[Jan069]

Hello there

We've struggled for many years caring for my elderly father with severe arthritis and poor health. He was only able to move half a metre from his bed to his chair each day with the help of a carer for the past few months.

He deteriorated rapidly in the new year and died last Thursday of pneumonia aged 89.

We are now dealing with the mixed emotions of shock, grief, guilt and relief.

We need to appoint a funeral director. Do I simply call the local funeral director (Chiswick W4) or is there a review system I can refer to? Are any of you lovely people able to recommend a funeral director in the W4 area?

x

I'm so sorry for your loss OP. Do you know if he has prepaid for his funeral?

I’m sorry you’ve lost you dad-your mixed emotions are very normal.
Do you have any local friends you can ask for a recommendation? But yes, you do must phone them up and they’ll take on the job

Thank you so much @JiltedJohnsJulie and @JudgeRindersMinder for your responses and kind wishes.

He didn't take out a funeral plan but has money put aside for the funeral.

I've already started asking for recommendations from neighbours and the carers who helped him over the last year so perhaps I'm on the right track? I've called one funeral director already to get a feel for their services and costs.

If anyone else has further guidance, that would be so much appreciated.

x

So sorry for your loss. Local reccomendstion is best. Costs vary massively and the add on can be v expensive. Think about what matters.
🌺🌺

Sorry for you loss OP.

I would call 3 local funeral directors, get like for like written quotes; e.g. same quality of coffin. (Personally I would not go for an expensive coffin, it's not worth it, and doesn't say anything about how much you loved someone IMO).

See which person you find easiest to talk to, most available if you have a question.

Choose based on these two things. Good luck. You want one who doesn't make you feel stressed.

That's a very good comment from Charley regarding the coffin

Thank you @thesandwich and @Charley50 - very good point about the coffin and one I will act on.

I've now spoken to two funeral directors and waiting for the third to call me back.

I've also checked out some positive Google reviews.

So nice of you all to take the time to offer your advice. x

Hope all goes well.🌺

Sorry for your loss.

They mostly all have websites nowadays. I emailed 3, er, actually before Mum died (she was very big on advance planning) and two were about the same price - I think the one who was easier to communicate with was a scratch cheaper so we went with them.

I didn't arrange my Dad's funeral but ended up liaising with the undertaker, who had been chosen somewhat in haste and (stressed with covid I think) had managed to wind up the rest of the family.

So it's worth actually talking to the possibles and taking a little time to choose, it can save you aggro at a very sensitive time.