People have begun once again to take an interest in making their own funeral arrangements before they die, as we have in other periods in human history. Personalization of funeral and memorial services reflects our practical concerns for the well-being of the family, preservation of the environment, and our desire to connect with the great flow of funerary traditions and rituals that have been such an important part of our social development. Some states including New York, have passed laws concerning pre-planning of funeral arrangements, requiring that an individual's pre-planning directive and wishes be honored by family members and others upon death. In such states, a pre-planning form may be obtained and be filled out, and filed with one's other important papers in preparation for death. As is the case with other directives including your Will, Power of Attorney or Health Care Proxy, the location of this important document should be made known to close relatives or friends, and copies provided to them for use when the need arises. It also is a practical idea to carry a simple card in your wallet providing contact information indicating who should be called immediately upon your death, such as the crematorium of your choice, or others, to insure that your final wishes are honored. See Links Page for additional information or view http://www.nysfda.org/people.htm.

Sample Pre-Planning Document: http://www.moloneyfh.com/htm_docs/pplan.html