Losing a loved one is never easy, but taking the time to discuss end-of-life preparations can relieve some of the burden when that difficult time comes. One of the best gifts you can give your family is clarity—knowing your wishes and having key information ready for when it’s needed.

When a death occurs, funeral homes need some immediate details to serve the family efficiently:

Full legal name of the decedent

Date and place of birth

Social Security number

Veteran status and discharge papers (if applicable)

Parents' names (including mother’s maiden name)

Spouse’s name (if married)

Prearranged funeral plans: How a decedent is prepared is important for what steps the funeral home takes next. A question you will be asked is if there are plans for burial or cremation. This is an important question as preparation is different and needs to be started right away.

In our community, we are fortunate to have Hawker Funeral Home in Blackfoot and Nalder Funeral Home in Shelley—both offering compassionate, professional services in times of loss. Their dedication ensures that families receive the care and respect they deserve. We should all be grateful for their commitment to helping us navigate these challenging moments with dignity and grace.

Take time today to talk to your loved ones. It’s a conversation that will bring peace of mind when it matters most.