In Missouri, who is responsible for making arrangements for a burial?

In Missouri, the responsibility for making arrangements for a burial primarily falls on the immediate family of the deceased. This is because family members often have the most intimate knowledge of the deceased's wishes, cultural practices, and traditions regarding burial and funeral services. They are typically in the best position to make decisions about the arrangements that would honor the deceased’s memory in a manner consistent with their values and desires.

While a funeral director can assist with the practical aspects of making arrangements, it is ultimately the family's responsibility to initiate and make decisions about the burial. They may choose to consult with a funeral director for guidance and assistance, but the decision-making authority rests with the family. The role of the local health department and an employer does not typically encompass the responsibility for burial arrangements, as their focus is generally on other aspects of public health and employment, respectively.