Planning a funeral typically involves sourcing music, flowers, and monuments for the service. During the COVID-19 pandemic, however, public gatherings are discouraged to prevent the spread of the virus. If you lose someone you love during this already difficult time, you may wonder how to host their service while adhering to guidelines. The guide below may help you honor your loved one’s life and reminisce with family and friends safely.

3 Tips for Planning a Funeral During the Pandemic

1. Have a Home Funeral

In the past, most funerals were held at home. The pandemic has made this practice more common again, and many people find its intimate nature somewhat healing. Similar to a vigil, a home funeral can include any rituals your family finds appropriate, such as sharing memories, reciting poetry, and playing music. 

For social distancing purposes, limit the gathering to a few close family members. All attendees should keep a distance of at least six feet from each other, wash their hands frequently, and wear masks (as well as other personal protective equipment if your loved one passed away due to the coronavirus). You can learn more about home funerals online or by contacting a local funeral home. 

2. Stream the Service 

Although home funerals held at this time should have limited attendees, you can share the service with as many loved ones as you want through technology.

There are many programs that support video conferencing, including Zoom®, FaceTime™, and Google Hangouts™. These programs make it easy for family and friends to take turns giving eulogies and watching the event from the safety of their own homes. 

3. Use Technology to Stay in Touch

Always communicate with loved ones and funeral directors via phone calls, text messages, video chats, and emails.

These technologies also allow you to stay connected to those closest to you after the funeral. Your family and friends can share stories, photos, and videos of the deceased and support each other through the grieving process. You can even create an online memory book where everyone can add their favorite stories to one convenient, ever-growing archive. 

Celebrate your loved one’s life with a gorgeous monument from Derrick Monument Company, Inc. Based in Le Roy, NY, this family-owned and -operated company has created headstones and grave markers for over a century. While adhering to safe social distancing guidelines, the team will help you plan a monument to honor the one you lost. Learn more about their projects online, and call (585) 768-8470 to discuss your needs.