Many people do not understand the difference between a funeral and a memorial service. Quite simply, a funeral is a service where the body is present, while a memorial service is one where the body is not present. When this gathering takes place depends on a variety of factors unique to your family’s situation and preferences. 

When Should You Hold a Memorial Service?

The advantage of a memorial service is that there is no rush. Because there is no body in need of immediate disposition, you can schedule the service for whatever date is convenient. For instance, if important family members are far away and unable to attend a funeral before the deceased is buried, you can delay the service a few weeks until everyone can be present. Some families prefer to hold it on an important date, such as the departed's birthday or the first anniversary of their death.

On the other hand, if you’d like to hold a service quickly, you can do that, too. Some families schedule it within 24 hours of their loved one’s death. However, for a public service, it’s often best to wait a few days, or at least until the obituary is published, so that work colleagues, acquaintances, and others not directly notified of the loss can attend.

Where Can You Hold a Memorial Service?

The location of a memorial service is flexible. You can opt to have it at home, or, for more space and support, it can be held at a funeral home.

Did the departed have a favorite vacation spot or hiking trail? Consider doing the memorial service there. Other people schedule an informal service prior to scattering ashes—which is allowed in National Parks, at sea, and, with permission, on private property. 

There are no hard and fast rules about the timing or location of a memorial service. In general, it's best to hold it at a time that's convenient for the bereaved and at a location that means something to the family or the departed. For assistance, contact Holman-Howe Funeral Homes. They operate facilities throughout Missouri and have been serving Seymour, Mansfield, Bolivar, and Lebanon since 1933. Visit their website for location details or call (417) 935-2244 to speak with an experienced, compassionate funeral director.