Harrison Funerals

Do I need to be invited to a funeral or can anyone go?

Anyone can go to a funeral if it is advertised, if it is not advertised and the family hasn't contacted you directly, this means it's normally private and out of respect for the family you should not attend.

How do people donate their body to science?

At Harrison's we deal directly with the University of Adelaide to assist with those who wish to donate their body to science. There are certain criteria that must be met in order for the university to accept the deceased person for study. This can be discussed with the family at the time of donation.

Can children go to a funeral?

Children should be given a choice as to whether they attend a funeral or not, sometimes toddlers or babies can be disruptive, but if they are of the immediate family it can sometimes be a welcome relief to have them present.

How can I help?

Depending on the circumstances, help can vary from cooking a meal, doing some shopping or just being a good listener; never stop them from expressing their feelings.

How do people select a funeral director?

If a family hasn't had the need to use a funeral home in the past it can be a bit daunting trying to decide which one to use. Sometimes if someone in the family has attended a service somewhere or a referral from someone else can assist in making the decision. Factors to consider may be reputation, location and cost. But if you are able, a visit to the funeral home to meet with the staff is certainly a good way to make a decision.

Does a pre arrangement take a lot of time?

It takes approximately two hours.

What to be done? Burial or cremation?

More often than not, people will have specified at one point in time whether they want to be cremated or buried. Sometimes in the case of a parent who has already buried their partner, their wish may be the same. It really is a very personal choice and one which cannot be taken lightly. It would seem that the majority of people in today's society prefer cremation that is not to say that burial is still not a preferred option of some families.

Do I have to wear black?

No, people no longer wear black to a funeral and it is no longer inappropriate for people be dressed in colourful clothing, in fact some people request guests attending to be dressed in colours.

Is there a charge to meet with a consultant to place a pre arrangement on file?

No. At Harrison's we are more than happy to spend time with anyone who wishes to make a pre arrangement.

What are the various methods available?

The deceased person can be buried, cremated, entombed or donated to a university for scientific research.

What should I say?

Try not to avoid the grieving; it is important to identify yourself to the family. It is nice to acknowledge their loved one and maybe offer a lovely memory such as "Your mum was a lovely person and will be sadly missed".

Can I make a pre arrangement when death is not imminent?

Yes. At Harrison Funerals one of our consultants is more than happy to help you make a pre arrangement at any time.

Can someone come to my house?

Yes. The appointment can take place at our premises which gives you a chance to look them over or alternatively we can come and see you in the privacy of your own home.

What can be done prior to death occurring?

You can still contact a funeral home prior to death occurring. You can even put most details in place, in regards to selections and what type of service you and your family would like. Of course the only thing that can't be organized is the date of the funeral.