January is the month of fresh starts and good intentions. It’s when many of us make lists of goals we hope to accomplish in the year ahead, like eating healthier, exercising more, traveling, learning something new, or signing up for that art or dance class. While these are all worthwhile resolutions, there’s one important item that often gets overlooked: preplanning your funeral.
For many people, the idea of preplanning feels uncomfortable or unnecessary. You may think you’re too young, too healthy, or that it’s something to worry about when you’re older. At Roper & Sons in Lincoln, we help individuals and families understand how preplanning isn’t about expecting the worst—it’s about being prepared, thoughtful, and caring for the people you love. When it comes to funeral planning, we believe it’s never too early.
What is Preplanning?
When you preplan, you are making decisions about your funeral or memorial service in advance. Many people share personal choices about burial or cremation and the type of service they’d like. From the music and readings to personal touches, making these decisions together with the family ensures that everyone has your best interests at heart. Some people choose to plan every detail, even the financial arrangements, while others outline what they prefer so their wishes are clear and understood.
More and more individuals are choosing to preplan years before their passing. By doing so, they take control of important decisions while they have the time to consider what truly matters to them. Preplanning your funeral ensures your service reflects your values, beliefs, and personality.
Five Reasons to Preplan Now
1. It allows you to share your wishes with loved ones.
Preplanning gives you the opportunity to communicate what you want. Whether it’s a traditional service, a celebration of life, or something simple and private, your loved ones will know they’re honoring your wishes.
2. It brings you and your family peace of mind.
Knowing that plans are in place can be a tremendous relief. Families often say that preplanning lifts a heavy emotional burden, allowing them to focus on remembering and healing rather than making difficult decisions under stress.
3. The cost of the funeral can be taken care of in advance.
Preplanning often includes financial arrangements, which can help protect against rising costs over time. This can ease financial strain on your family and give you confidence that everything is taken care of.
4. It removes responsibility from grieving families.
When a death occurs, loved ones are often overwhelmed with emotion. Preplanning removes the pressure of having to make quick decisions, giving your loved ones space to grieve without added stress.
5. Your plan is transferable.
If you move or your circumstances change, most preplanned funeral arrangements can be transferred to another funeral home. At Roper & Sons, we ensure your plans stay with you, wherever life takes you.
Planning with our Family Service Counselors
At Roper & Sons, our Family Service Counselors are here to guide you through the preplanning process with care, respect, and understanding. Theresa Scherer and Jodi Richards meet privately with individuals and families to answer questions, explain options, and help create plans that feel right for you.
Conversations about preplanning are relaxed, informative, and entirely focused on your needs. Whether you’re planning for yourself or helping a loved one, our counselors are committed to making the process comfortable and meaningful.
We’re Here to Guide You
As you look ahead to 2026 and consider your resolutions, think about adding preplanning your funeral to your list. It’s a thoughtful gift to yourself—and an enduring act of care for those you love. Call Roper & Sons Funeral Home at 402-476-1225 to arrange a meeting with one of our Family Service Counselors.