Traditional Funeral Services verses Memorial Services

One of the most significant decisions people face when making End-of-Life celebrations is whether to choose a funeral or a memorial.

Being faced with the passing of a loved one is never easy, and it’s a stressful time for everyone involved. So many decisions have to be made, some can feel overwhelming. You must decide whether to hold a traditional funeral or a memorial service for your loved one. Consider the differences; however, at Fitchett-Mann, we provide the flexibility to cater to your specific end-of-life celebration.

In this blog post, we provide the critical differences between the two and remind you that we are here to accommodate your family’s request to honor your loved one.

Traditional Funeral Services

First, let’s talk about traditional funerals. A traditional funeral is typically held within a few days of the deceased’s passing. The body will often be embalmed and placed in a casket. The funeral service itself typically includes:

A visitation period.
A ceremony with the casket present.
A committal ceremony at the graveside.
A funeral reception.

Many choose a traditional funeral because of cultural and religious significance, respect for tradition, legacy and family history, and personal connection.

Memorial Services

On the other hand, memorial services are typically held a few days to a few weeks after the deceased’s passing. Unlike funerals, the body is generally not present. Families hold a memorial at a funeral home, church, or any other location that has meaning for the family and friends of the deceased. Memorial services offer greater flexibility in terms of customization and, at times, can be less expensive than traditional funerals. There are many reasons one chooses cremation, including flexibility, personalization, and emphasis on celebration.

One Loved Wishes

The critical difference between the two ceremonies is the location of the remains of your loved one. Fitchett-Mann Funeral Services guides you through the process to honor your loved one’s wishes.

It’s essential to consider the wishes of the deceased. Did they express any preferences for their final arrangements? Did they want a traditional funeral or something more flexible? By considering the deceased’s wishes, you can help ensure their final arrangements are as they would have liked.

If you’re worried about planning a funeral or memorial service on your own, don’t be. Fitchett-Mann Funeral Services is there to help you every step of the way. In addition, you may want to consider pre-planning your funeral or memorial service so that your family members won’t be burdened with those decisions when the time comes.

Ultimately, the decision about the end-of-life celebration comes down to personal preference and a loved one’s wishes. Make an informed decision that suits you. Remember that no matter what you choose, the most important thing is to honor the memory of your loved one and celebrate their life in the way they would have wanted.

Let the informed staff at Fitchett-Mann help you navigate these decisions for you and your family.

Note: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or professional advice. It is always recommended to consult with funeral service professionals, religious leaders, and legal advisors when making end-of-life decisions.