It’s never easy to choose a funeral home, especially if you have little to no experience with funeral services in the Knoxville area. There are a lot of considerations, and you will likely be concerned as to how your loved one is presented. However, the process can be simplified with some basic questions that will help narrow down your choices.

How many years have you been in business?

For many, this is the most important question to ask. Experience breeds knowledge and, of course, skill. It also lends itself to producing more considerate, compassionate professionals, particularly when it comes to funeral home services. In Knoxville, ask how many years they have been in business. If there’s a chance the funeral service is part of a chain, be sure the number given reflects the number of years that particular funeral service has been operational and not the chain brand itself.

What are the different packages and options you offer?

Regardless of your love for the deceased, you will want to stick to a reasonable budget. However, some things that cost extra money make for a special event for some but not for others. You will need to get a full sense of the different options you have before making a final decision. Also inquire as to whether certain elements of one package can be migrated over to another package. If the answer is no, you may want to investigate other options in the Knoxville area, particularly if the option is personally important to you, the family, or the deceased. You want to be completely satisfied.

What, exactly, do you do?

There can be a lot of mystery around what a funeral home does. When do they get the body? What do they do with the body? How long does it take? These are all reasonable questions to ask. You may also want to know if you will have access to the body and during which hours. This is especially important if you want to be involved in dressing or grooming your loved one. While many prefer to make it a hands-off experience, others really want to play a part. Exactly how extensive your role can be may vary based on the funeral service, so don’t hesitate to ask.

Asking these questions will make for a smoother, more pleasant experience for everyone. In Knoxville, there are several options, so you want to be sure you choose the best one for you and your loved one.