How to Plan a Funeral

How to Plan a Funeral in Ireland

Planning a funeral in Ireland involves several key steps, from registering the death to arranging the ceremony and burial or cremation. This guide outlines the main considerations to help make the process as smooth as possible during a difficult time.

1. Registering the Death

Before making funeral arrangements, you must register the death. This is done at the local Civil Registration Office, usually by a family member, next of kin, or the funeral director. You will need:

  • The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (issued by a doctor)

  • Personal details of the deceased (e.g., full name, date of birth, occupation)

Once registered, a Death Certificate can be obtained, which may be required for legal and administrative purposes.

2. Choosing a Funeral Director

Most families in Ireland work with a funeral director to handle arrangements. Funeral directors can:

  • Help with legal paperwork

  • Organise transportation of the deceased

  • Arrange the coffin, flowers, and notices

  • Liaise with cemeteries or crematoria

To find a reputable funeral director, check the Irish Association of Funeral Directors (IAFD) or ask for local recommendations.

3. Deciding on Burial or Cremation

  • Burial: This is the traditional choice in Ireland. If the deceased had a family grave, check with the cemetery about re-opening it. Otherwise, a new plot may need to be purchased.

  • Cremation: A growing option, available at several crematoria across Ireland. You will need a cremation form from a doctor, and the funeral director can arrange the service.

4. Choosing a Funeral Type

  • Religious Ceremony: Catholic and other Christian funerals usually include a church service with a funeral Mass. Other religious communities have their own traditions.

  • Civil or Humanist Funeral: Non-religious ceremonies focus on celebrating the deceased’s life without religious elements. These can be held in funeral homes, crematoria, or other venues.

5. Funeral Service Arrangements

  • Venue: Church, funeral home, crematorium, or graveside

  • Eulogies & Readings: Family members or friends may wish to speak

  • Music & Hymns: Choose appropriate songs or live music

  • Flowers or Donations: Decide whether to accept flowers or suggest a charity donation instead

6. Death Notices & Obituaries

Many families place a death notice in newspapers like the Irish times or the Irish Independent or online platforms such as rip.ie. These include details of the funeral, messages from the family, and donation requests if applicable.

7. Wake or Reception

A wake is a common tradition in Ireland, where friends and family gather to pay respects. This can be held:

  • At home (traditional Irish wake)

  • In a funeral home

  • At a local hotel or pub for a post-funeral gathering

8. Legal & Financial Matters

After the funeral, you may need to handle legal and financial affairs, such as:

  • Notifying banks, insurance providers, and pension offices

  • Applying for a Bereavement Grant (if eligible)

  • Managing the deceased’s estate (through probate, if necessary)

Final Thoughts

Funeral planning can be overwhelming, but support is available from funeral directors, religious leaders, and community services. If the deceased left specific wishes in a will or pre-arranged funeral plan, these should be followed as closely as possible.

CALENDAR