Often, the term funeral is used to describe any type of service to honor someone who has passed. What you may not realize, though, is there are several different types of funeral services. What they all have in common is that the deceased’s remains are present (unlike a memorial service, where the deceased person’s remains, or commonly known as “ashes,” may or may not be present), but beyond that, there are some other distinct differences. 

4 Kinds of Funeral Services

1. Full Funeral

These services have three parts: a viewing, a service, and a burial (committal). The viewing usually takes place at a funeral home the night before the funeral service, or it can be held immediately prior to the commencement of the service and may have an open or closed casket. The ceremony may take place at the funeral home, a house of worship, or graveside, and often includes eulogies and readings, prayers, and music. Finally, the burial takes place in the cemetery. Often, funerals are followed by a reception where family and friends can gather and share memories of the deceased and provide comfort for each other. 

2. Immediate Burial

Some people would rather forego the viewing and formal ceremony and just be buried. This is called an immediate burial and is the most affordable option, as it does not require any associated expenses for flowers, merchandise, or other services. However, this type of service is done at the discretion of the funeral home’s schedule and no services are held. Some people may opt to have a graveside service which is much like a traditional service except it’s held at the cemetery and is a much shorter service.

3. Full Cremation

If the deceased opted to be cremated, a full funeral is still an option. Some people opt for a viewing and ceremony, with cremation taking place afterward rather than a burial. Others may opt to have the funeral after the cremation, which is called a memorial service, with the remains of the deceased present at the service in an urn. 

4. Direct Cremation

A direct cremation does not involve any type of ceremony. The deceased is cremated soon after death, and the remains returned to the next of kin. There is no viewing or funeral service, but the family may opt for a memorial or celebration of life later on.

For more than 100 years, Willow Funeral Home, LLC in Willow Springs, MO, has helped families and friends honor their loved ones with compassionate, personalized funeral service planning. They can help you plan everything from burial services to cremation, offering support to celebrate the individuality and spirit of the deceased. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call (417) 469-3141 or visit them online.