Just a few years ago most funerals were composed of the same basic elements. A visitation or viewing was generally held at the funeral home the day before the funeral. A funeral service at the funeral home or church followed with a brief service at the grave. Music was also quite structured, composed mostly of the old standard hymns. The minister would read scripture from both the Old Testament and New Testament followed by an obituary or life sketch and a sermon. The casket was nearly always opened either before the funeral began or at the conclusion of the service. Generally the family would view last, just before the attendees followed the family and the funeral coach to the cemetery in formal procession.
This briefly describes what is generally referred to as “a traditional funeral”. The majority of the families we serve still prefer a similar type of funeral service; however, not every family does.
A growing number of our clients prefer to have a “Life Appreciation” type service. This type service stresses the positive attributes of the deceased and uses various life symbols that connect the deceased with the family and friends. It is common to use photographs and other objects which connect the mourners with the deceased. Music is an important element of most funerals and is more apt to be the music loved by the deceased and is often secular or non-religious.
Memorial services are commonly held following a cremation. Graveside services are sometimes preferred to a more formal funeral held in a funeral home or church.
Create Healing Experiences
In the depth of early grief, you might think that it would be ‘easier’ to just take care of things as simply – and as quickly –as possible. But easier – especially in this circumstance – simply isn’t better. You must set the stage for the future by giving your family and friends the opportunity to start the healing process.
Funeral Services
Gathering with friends and family gives everyone the opportunity to share memories, express emotions, and find comforting support. Whether you choose burial or cremation; whether you select a formal funeral or a more relaxed memorial service, the need for acknowledgment of the loss with family and friends is ever present. We can help you create a unique meaningful ceremony to express the genuine individuality of your loved one.
We offer families a beautiful setting in which to come together to honor your loved one. But, you may certainly choose to celebrate their life in a more unique setting. No matter where you decide to gather together, such a service will make a difference in the lives of all who attend.
Burial Services
If burial has been selected, usually any ceremonies we design revolve around the casket being present. You can choose to follow tradition, with a viewing, and then a funeral service in a church or memorial chapel. Or you could decide to have a more relaxed service, even in your family home.
Let’s just say this: there is no ‘hard and fast’ formula for honoring your loved one when burial has been selected. We’re here to listen to your concerns, share our experience, and help you to arrive at the perfect way to gather together before your loved one's interment in the cemetery of your choice.
Cremation Services
Cremation only refers to the manner in which you or your loved one has chosen to deal with the physical remains. We want you to know that this decision doesn’t limit the ways you can honor your loved one's life. We heartily suggest that you have a funeral or memorial service, because your need for such a healing experience is not lessened by the decision to be cremated. Again, the options are limited only by your imagination. We hope that you will contact us to discuss the wide variety of celebratory options open to you.