Worthington, WV Funeral Homes | Funeral Services

When faced with the need to plan West Virginia funeral services for a loved one, individuals need to invest in help from the right professionals. There is no law that says you have to hold a memorial or that burying your loved one is the only option. Yet, you do have to consider the needs and desires of the deceased loved one as well as the needs you and the rest of your family may have. It is never an easy process. Yet, there is help for it through West Virginia funeral homes who can help you determine what your options are as well as help you carry out the wishes of your loved one. And if cost is a problem, West Virginia funeral services can present you with options to ensure you save money while also arranging a memorable and suitable funeral.
Taking Responsibility for Planning Funeral Services
Prior to anything else, it is necessary for individuals to determine who has the legal right to make these decisions on behalf of a deceased loved one. In many cases, the individual may have left behind specific directions to follow outlining what the desired actions are. This may be left in a healthcare directive or in a will. If this is a legally binding document, it is to be followed regardless of any other information.
When there is no directive or other information that shows what the loved one's desires were, the family will need to follow West Virginia laws. These laws outline the specific steps necessary for family members who wish to aid in the help of planning these services. Below is the actual order outlined by the state. If the first person is not available, the next person on the list becomes responsible.

• The deceased expressed wishes, left in an advance directive, preneed funeral contract, or a medical power of attorney is above all else considered the first decision maker.
• If the deceased elected a health care representative, and this person had legally valid medical power of attorney, this person is given rights next.
• A spouse, unless there is a petition of divorce pending or a legal separation in place
• A person listed in a notarized document listed as the responsible party
• The next of kin
• A person who obtains a court order
• A public official
• Someone who handles the collection of the body if the deceased donated his or her body to science

Making Burial Decisions with West Virginia Funeral Homes
One way these organizations can provide assistance to the responsible party is in making burial decisions. There are several options available that decision makers may wish to consider. This includes the following.

• Burial: In a mausoleum, cemetery, or other allowable location; planning includes aid in obtaining proper caskets, burial plots, and the body handling
• Cremation: The West Virginia funeral services will likely include obtaining the right to cremation, signed by the medical examiner, aid in transporting the body, and management of ashes afterwards.
• Scattering of Ashes: such as at sea; with the appropriate legal rights to do so
• VA Benefits: Burial or other services available through the Department of Veterans Affairs on behalf of those who served in the Armed Forces; aid in obtaining benefits and planning

With the aid of West Virginia funeral homes, these services become available to the decision maker. Ultimately, once this decision is made, further planning can occur.
Planning of Memorial Services
Many times, West Virginia funeral homes also aid in the planning of actual funeral services. This is not always a necessary component of the process. However, when the family desires it, help is providing for the planning, including any memorial services, wakes, and religious services.
Help with Reporting
A number of agencies must be alerted to the death of your loved one. In some cases, you may wish to announce this death in an appropriate manner. These funeral providers aid in this process. They can help with the following:

• Reporting the death through newspapers or other mediums to alert family and friends
• Contacting the appropriate facilities to obtain copies of the death certificate on behalf of the family
• Aid in contacting the Social Security Administration and filing for survivor benefits, if applicable
• Aid in contacting life insurance companies and help with filing claims
• Other legal reporting requirements

No matter what your specific needs are, there are professional services that can help you to manage them. West Virginia funeral services can encompass as much or as little of the help you need.
Reach out to West Virginia funeral homes to get the help and guidance you need. Learn what your options are, what your rights are, and how you can plan for the needs of your loved one. With the aid of West Virginia funeral services, it is possible to handle all aspects of this process with the dignity and care your loved one deserves.