Even though it’s a sad and painful event in everyone’s life, funerals are something to be done properly to remember, honor, and celebrate the life of a loved one and provide friends and families the best possible time to say their goodbyes. There are many different funeral types that families can have depending on the loved one’s culture, religion, and family or loved one’s personal requests. In California cremation and burial are the most used method aside from numerous other funeral options. But during this kind of situation, it might be difficult to focus on what type of funeral is the best option.
To help with the problem, here are 5 funeral types to help you understand which one you need.
Graveside
Also known as “Committal service,” set at the gravesite before the body is buried. It is one of the most emotional funeral types where everyone can express their emotions and goodbyes before their loved one’s actual gravesite. It can be done privately where the gravesite will only be open for friends and families, or it can be opened to the public to enable anyone to pay their respects. Most graveside funerals are most likely short. It sometimes involves the tossing of flowers on the grave or even soil. It may involve religious and non-religious traditions depending on the family or the loved one.
Memorial
Also known as “Celebration of Life,” this one has no restrictions unlike any other funeral type. Memorials can be informal, cheerful, and positive, exactly celebrating life. This is also different from the other, for it does not require the decedent’s body to be present on-site, making it possible to be done anytime after the loved one’s passing.
Burial
Burial is one of the cores of any basic funeral aside from cremation. This happens after the main funeral event. This also involves songs, prayers while lowering the casket into the grave, and many more, depending on the family or the deceased religion and culture. Family, friends, and mourners can attend the burial. There are different types of burial. In-ground burial, public or private mausoleum (Above ground), and natural burial. You can ask your funeral director for which of the options is best for your budget and your needs.
Direct Cremation
In direct cremation, there are no services beforehand. Meaning it goes straight to the cremation process. This is perfect for highly private persons and families who want to keep their peace during a difficult time and cut other costs for caskets, burial sites, etc. However, memorial and other funeral services may be organized sometime after.
Viewing service (Wake)
The viewing service happens before the formal funeral. This is an option for open-casket viewing, a chance for friends and families to see the body before the burial or cremation. This can be held at churches, funeral homes, or even the family’s home. The wake is also an opportunity to connect with people who also mourn for their loss, like family and friends, and make time to properly say goodbye to the loved one.
Funerals are the most painful and difficult chapter of everyone’s life. To honor the loved one, it should be proper and well prepared. There are different funerals designed to assist families and friends in finally laying their loved ones to rest in the best way possible.
For memorial mortuary services and funeral needs, visit sunset hills and have the best possible funeral for your loved one.