Burial
Services
If your family's personal preference is earth burial, there are
many options for designing a personalized
ceremony to remember your loved one. Below are just
a few options you have.
Viewing or Visitation
A public viewing or visitation provides an opportunity for the
family of the deceased and his or her friends, relatives and
colleagues to come together. A visitation is often held at the
funeral home, but can take place in a church or other location.
Friends and colleagues can pay their final respects to the deceased
and offer condolences to the family. A viewing or visitation can
also be private and limited to the deceased's immediate family.
Funeral Service
A funeral service is a formal gathering at the funeral home or
another location. One or several individuals that knew the deceased
may speak at the funeral, whereas other families choose to have a
favorite clergyperson or non-religious celebrant speak. Speeches
may offer prayers or words of wisdom, as well as remarks on the
deceased's life and character.
Graveside Service
A graveside service occurs at the place of committal. Often, a
graveside service occurs directly after a funeral ceremony, but it
can also be the only service held. Much like a funeral ceremony, a
family member or other person may offer a few remarks.
Memorial Service
A memorial service is similar to a funeral service, except the
body is not present. A memorial service can take place shortly
after burial occurs, or can take place at a later date.
Regardless of the services you choose, you have many options for
personalizing the service and ensuring that it truly reflects the
unique life of your loved one.