That's how I do it also. But what helps me sometimes is when the villagers start moving toward the amphitheater to bury the chief, I let them get very close then pause it. It's just easier for me to not have to go over the whole island.

I may just be getting lucky, but unless the new Chief is a child or nursing mom, I always find them in that group of villagers going to bury the dead.

Again, I'm not sure if this is just luck or not but it may help to give it a try.

Good Luck!