When a loved one passes away, there are many ways that you can celebrate the individual’s life and put them to rest. For many families, burial is the preferred way of sending the deceased to their final resting place. But how this service is conducted can vary from case to case. If this option seems right for your family, here are the main types of burial services that you may want to consider.  

A Simple Guide to Burial Services

Traditional Funeral

The standard funeral service is comprised of three distinct events. First, loved ones gather at a church or funeral home to share their memories and visit with the deceased. This ceremony can be adjusted to fit individual preferences—such as by involving music, prayer, or a variety of speakers.

After the funeral service, the casket is transported to the burial site. Typically, attendees drive to the gravesite as part of an organized procession. At the cemetery, the casket is committed to the plot—such as in those in the ground or in a vault—while preferred religious rites are practiced.

Once the burial service is completed, friends and family will return to the funeral home or another individual’s property for a reception. Compared to the other segments of the service, the reception is less formal and provides a place for attendees to share condolences over food and drink.

Graveside Ceremony

A graveside ceremony is similar to a traditional funeral service but is slightly condensed. Specifically, both the funeral and burial services take place directly at the gravesite. Once attendees arrive at the cemetery, they will sit and listen to speakers share memories, conduct prayer, and conduct ceremonious activities. Once the outdoor service is completed, the body is interred in the proper grave location, followed by a reception for guests.

Memorial

A memorial service is often preferred among families that may not be ready to organize a funeral for the deceased. Typically, with this option, the deceased is buried without oversight or as part of a small informal gathering among family members.

While people are welcome to visit the grave after interment, the actual memorial service may not follow for weeks or months after burial. At the memorial service, friends and family gather to share their condolences and honor the deceased without the physical body present.

The permanence of burial can make it difficult for many families to choose the right service for their loved one. That’s why Meyer & Geiser Funeral Home in Cincinnati, OH is committed to helping all patrons explore their options in-depth. Whether you prefer a traditional burial service, a graveside ceremony, or informal memorial, these caring funeral directors will guide you through the process so you can grieve without additional stress. For more information about these services, visit this provider online. To speak directly with a compassionate specialist, call (513) 921-4144.