What is a Funeral?

All we need to do is say the word "funeral" and within microseconds, you have an image in your mind of what a funeral looks like. This mental image comes from many sources: the geographical place, culture and society in which we live; our faith; our life experience. Obviously then, a funeral service in Borneo would look very different from one held in Tanzania; there are even significant differences between the funerals held in ethnically and/or geographically diverse regions of North America.


Yet, despite the differences, these funeral services have much in common. We invite you to read further to learn the really simple answer to the question "what is a funeral?" Should you have questions about what you read here, we encourage you to call us. One of our funeral professionals will be delighted to explore the commonalities behind the wide spectrum of funeral ceremonies seen around the world.

Funeral Service Types



A funeral service, whether traditional or more modern, has two functions: to acknowledge the life and death of an individual and to bring the bereaved together in support of one another. The following list includes various types of services that our team can assist in planning for your loved one’s funeral. 


Visitation

This is often called a viewing or a wake. Guests come to pay their respects to the deceased by viewing their casketed body and spending time with the grieving family. A visitation can occur at any time before the funeral service.


Funeral Service

This event commonly takes place at the funeral home, a church, or at the graveside. It can include music, the reading of literary or religious passages, a eulogy, prayer, or the singing of hymns.


Committal Service

If the family plans to bury the deceased, this stage involves the lowering of the casket into the grave, typically accompanied by spoken words or prayer.


Funeral Reception

This post-service gathering or repast is considered a time to share memories, laughter, and support with family and friends. 

We offer a number of affordable service options if you are choosing burial for your loved one. Each can be tailored to meet the needs and expectations of today's price-conscious families. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help if you have any questions about our offerings.

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