When a loved one passes away, you may find the terms funeral and memorial used interchangeably when referring to the services held to celebrate the life of a deceased relative or friend. However, there are some differences between them that may influence which one you choose when planning or preplanning a service. 

What Distinguishes Funerals From Memorials?

The primary difference between funerals and memorials is whether the body of the deceased is present. At a funeral service, the body is present, whether in an open or closed casket.

At a memorial, on the other hand, the body is not present. If a decedent’s cremated remains are present, the service is a memorial. Memorials can take place either before or after a burial, but most take place because the body of the deceased is not available for some reason. For instance, when a service member dies overseas or if they are missing in action and presumed dead, their loved ones may host a memorial service. 

Choosing a Funeral or Memorial Service

Sometimes a memorial service is the only option for families who want to remember a loved one after they pass. However, because more people are opting for cremation, memorials are becoming more common.

Although many memorials are held in houses of worship or funeral homes, they can take place anywhere, such as at a location special to the deceased. Because memorials do not include the body, there are no time restrictions on when they can occur. Some memorials occur weeks or months after someone passes. 

Funerals, on the other hand, typically take place within days of the individual passing, even if their remains are cremated. Because they typically involve burials, the service that takes place graveside is often considered to be a funeral, with a memorial service occurring afterward.

There are many reasons that families may prefer a traditional funeral. Although religious belief may rule out a memorial, many choose funerals because of a desire to commemorate a life in a somber and serious manner.

Whether you prefer a traditional funeral or a memorial service, Ritchay Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, will guide you every step of the way. They understand that everyone has unique needs and preferences and will help you customize your plans to honor the memory of your loved ones. Their compassionate team will handle all your end-of-life and preplanning needs, just as they’ve done since 1957. Call (715) 423-1414 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about where to begin.