When a loved one dies, the family must prepare for services to honor their life and say final goodbyes. While funeral services and memorial services have some similarities, there are differences to explore before making a decision. To better understand your options, here is a brief guide.

Should You Choose a Memorial or Funeral Service?

Funerals

Funeral services are rituals for honoring the deceased that usually have the body present. They can be held in a chapel or other religious building, and they usually include a traditional graveside burial ceremony. If cremation is selected, funeral services can also be held before the process, giving family and friends the opportunity for final goodbyes.

Funerals are usually held within a week of the death. Some families have viewings at a funeral home where mourners can gather before the funeral service is held at a place of worship or in a cemetery.

Funerals have a general order of rituals that can be customized under the guidance of a funeral director. They will provide options for the service as well as details regarding the casket, burial choices, and the obituary. Some funeral homes also offer grief counseling as part of a funeral service package.

Memorials

A memorial service does not have the body of the deceased present and doesn’t always take place immediately after the death. Memorial services are geared toward celebrating the life of the departed; and, if cremation has occurred, a ceremony to scatter or bury ashes may be included.

Sometimes memorial services are held after a private funeral service. This gives families the option to have a small, intimate funeral for close relatives followed by a larger service for others grieving the death. This also gives family members that can’t attend the funeral another opportunity to honor their loved one.

For over a century, Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Inc. Funeral Home has provided compassionate funeral services and memorials to families throughout Middletown, NY. Their staff is available to help with every step of the process to ensure your loved one receives the right service. They’ll also ensure that family and friends have a safe place to grieve during a difficult time. To learn more about their offerings, including funeral pre-planning and cremation services, call (845) 343-2142 or visit them online.