Understanding Your Funeral Service Options
At the point of death, there are many options for the type of funeral services held to honor the deceased. While some of these services involve family and friends, others do not. Because most people do not deal with death often, they do not always know all of the options. Understanding these options' differences is crucial when assuring you get what you want or need for closure. Here are a few services offered by most funeral homes to choose from.
Direct Cremation
Direct cremation is probably one of the quickest and least expensive ways to address the death of a loved one. The body is taken directly from the hospital or the point where medical personnel certifies death to the crematorium.
Once the cremation occurs, the funeral home will return the cremains to you. There is no visitation or viewing unless you choose to have a memorial service later.
Direct Burial
Direct burial is very similar to direct cremation. Instead of cremating the body, the funeral home will bury the body without any formal ceremony. This service also has no visitation, funeral, or graveside service. Direct burials may be perfect for someone wanting internment without any fanfare.
Memorial Service
One of the more popular types of service is a memorial service. Memorial services offer an opportunity for friends and family to get together and honor the memory of the deceased. These services are also sometimes referred to as celebrations of life.
A memorial service can sometimes resemble a traditional funeral, except for the body's absence. Memorial services can also be personalized and held at places that are significant to the deceased. Friends and family have held services at work, at a favorite bar, club, vacation spots, parks, and private homes.
Traditional Funeral
Probably the most common funeral service offered by funeral homes is a traditional funeral. These services often contain a religious component and may be held at a house of worship. Families also have traditional services in the chapel of the funeral home or other locations. The body or remains are usually present at the service, although this is not a requirement.
Traditional funerals usually contain music, a eulogy, or an ode to the deceased's life. While a preacher or pastor often delivers a eulogy, anyone the family desires can give it.
Burial or cremations usually follow traditional funerals. The final disposal depends on the wishes of the family.
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