In reply to Randy.

Biggest obstacles to overcome in planning a fyneral/memorial are reestablishing the role of the pastor as the 'officiant' of the service, AND guiding families to understand that Christ [Crucified, buried, and Resurrected] is the focus and not the deceased loved one.
Overcoming the first obstacle helps alleviates the heartache of not allowing inappropriate worldly intrusions into the service [e.g. unbiblical statements, music/songs, and cultural symbols]. This also lays the groundwork for entrusting the pastor to set forth the service order that will glorify God, and spiritually edify those present.