If not specified in the will, it can be difficult to determine what type of ceremony to honor the life of a loved one with. Some prefer a traditional funeral service, while others opt for a more contemporary memorial. The best way to decide is to discuss your options with an experienced funeral director.

Leo M. Bean and Sons Funeral Home of Rochester, NY, has been providing compassionate assistance to clients for over 40 years, so they understand the common dilemmas of planning a service. To simplify your decision, they list the top three differences between a funeral and a memorial service.

3 Differences Between a Funeral Service & a Memorial

The Viewing

Funeral services usually begin with a viewing at the funeral home. Whether the casket is opened or closed, this part provides an intimate setting in which family and friends can say their goodbyes. Memorial services don’t include a viewing, either because the deceased was cremated or the family doesn’t wish for their loved one to be on display.

The Format

Funeral services are known to be traditional. In most cases, the gathering will proceed from the funeral home to a church where hymns are sung and eulogies are presented, after which a pastor or priest will give a short sermon. Memorial services, on the other hand, have no standard format. They can be customized based on how the family wants to remember their loved one, and may include songs, anecdotes, and personal traditions.

The Burial

Funeral services typically end with a burial. After the program has been completed, family and friends get into their marked cars and follow the hearse to the graveyard where the deceased will be laid to rest. Since memorial services don’t incorporate the casket, they often end with a reception where guests can meet and console each other. This will either be on-site at the church or at a nearby hall, and might include a photo or collage of fond memories.

If you need assistance planning a service to commemorate the life of a loved one, set up an appointment with Leo M. Bean and Sons Funeral Home. They understand the ins and outs of both funeral and memorial services and will be ready to provide the insight you need to make a decision. Call (585) 426-7830 to talk directly with one of their friendly funeral directors. Visit their website for additional information.