Funeral Directors – How Their Role Has Changed

Over the past ten or twenty years, society has begun to think about death in new ways, and the role of the funeral director has adapted to meet these new needs. As it stands now, funeral homes are seen as much more of a ‘one stop shop’, offering services that range from lasting keepsakes to floral tributes.

For a growing number of people, whilst loss and grief are obviously still at its core, the funeral of a loved one is an opportunity to celebrate their life, rather than focus on mourning. Strictly black attire and solemn hymns have slowly been giving way to the occasional introduction of subtle color and even favorite pop songs. Funeral directors have needed to adapt to this cultural drift and offer a broader range of services.

Since the idea of pre-payment was introduced around thirty years ago, pre-paid funeral plans have steadily been on the increase. A growing number even go beyond this, not only paying for their own funeral in advance, but also planning the actual ceremony, so the family approaches the funeral director knowing the full wishes of their loved one.

To act as efficient as they can, funeral directors also need to be aware of the shifting business of life. In addition to dealing first-hand with grief and loss, they can offer counseling, legal assistance and financial guidance. Rather than the ‘body-centered’ service of earlier years, these days the profession is significantly more knowledge-based.

From a financial point of view, funeral directors have seen profit margins reduce quite significantly. This has given rise to many expanding their range of services and products, including online obituaries and creative keepsakes.

Funeral directors will need to continue adapting their services for many years to come. However, whatever changes the future brings with it, their role will remain sensitive and practical.

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With origins dating back to 1853, E.F. Box are one of the oldest funeral directors within the UK. They offer a range of funeral services across a variety of faiths, beliefs and ways of celebrating life.