Planning
Funeral Planning Timeline: What to Do Days 1-7 After a Death
12 min read · Updated February 2026
Funeral Planning Timeline
The week following a death brings many decisions. This timeline helps you understand what decisions need attention and when, including important music selections.
Understanding the Timeline
Most funerals occur 3-7 days after death, leaving limited time for preparation. Understanding the typical timeline helps you make decisions effectively.
Realistic Service Timing
Most services occur 3-7 days after death. Weekend services can extend this to 10 days. Some families choose immediate services (1-2 days) or delayed ones (2+ weeks).