CSA Leaders Network

Program: The Role of the Funeral Home Thru the Dying Process
Presenter: Joanna Harper from Horan and McConaty

Speaker: Joanna Harper
Title: Advanced Planning Advisor, Horan and McConaty Funeral Homes
303-557-6092
cjharper@horancares.com

Outline: The Role of the Funeral Home Thru the Dying Process
I. Thanatology – interdisciplinary study of dying, death, grief; bereavement
a. Physical, emotional, cognitive, relational, existential, spiritual, ethical
b. Improve “Bereavement Outcomes” aka adapting to the loss of a loved one.
II. Concepts on Grief
a. Key Concepts
b. Research Basics
c. Function
d. Value Proposition
e. Grief models – including Freud, Bonanno, Dr. Wolfelt; Kubler Ross
III. Getting familiar with your local funeral home – what do I need, what can I expect?
a. Introduction to a funeral home experience – pictorial walk-thru the facilities and what
to expect when you need the services of a funeral home.
b. Emphasis on what questions to ask and considerations before you go
“shopping”.
IV. What is Advance Planning
a. How do people plan their own arrangements in advance
b. Introductions to a Funeral Policy – compare & contrast to life insurance policies.
V. Wrap up discussion with opportunity for Q&A.

Funeral Planning is one of the greatest gifts we can leave our families. Understanding the process is key to a smoother transition into a new reality.