A funeral service, whether traditional or more modern (memorial service
or celebration-of-life), has two functions: to acknowledge the death and lifetime achievements of an individual and to bring grieving family members and friends together in support of one another during this difficult time.
If you are interested in making funeral arrangements for a loved one, we invite you to call us
to begin.
Source:
Rostad, Curtis, "The Basics of Funeral Service", Indiana Funeral Directors Association, 2014
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. The visitation is typically held the evening prior to the funeral though it may be held on the same day, just prior to the 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, and the singing of hymns.
Following the funeral, family and friends process to the cemetery in a motorcade for a brief service prior to burial. At some local cemeteries this committal service will take place in a chapel or covered pavillion. Burial will be overseen by the funeral director once the family has left.
Many choose to host this post-service gathering at a church, reception hall, restaurant or in a home. This is considered a time to share memories, laughter, and support.