Traditional funerals and memorial services are both important parts of the grieving process for family and friends. They are an opportunity to say a final goodbye, and they’re also a vital step in the stage of their acceptance of their loss. Funerals and memorials can look very similar, although they can also vary greatly from each other. However, the main difference is the presence or absence of the body of the deceased. At your funeral home near Holly Hill, SC, you can find out more about what options you have when it comes to a funeral or memorial service. 

A traditional funeral will have the body of the departed person present. It may be an open or closed-casket service, but regardless, their body will be there for the ceremony. Typically, a funeral will be preceded by either a viewing or a visitation. A viewing will involve an opened casket, meaning that embalming services will be necessary. This provides those attending a chance to see their loved one a final time, and it can be important to many people for the grieving and acceptance process. The viewing is usually held the day before the funeral, or it may be held earlier in the same day. A visitation is a similar gathering, but with the casket being closed. This is an opportunity for the close family members to receive those attending, and for people to pay their condolences. Some people may go to the visitation who are not able to attend the funeral, as well. 

After the viewing or visitation, the funeral service will take place. This usually happens either in the funeral home or in a place of worship. Someone will be chosen to officiate the services, and another person will deliver the eulogy. It may have a religious component to the service, or it may not. Finally, after the funeral service concludes, the body may be transported to the cemetery for a burial service. 

A memorial service typically takes place after someone has been buried or cremated. Their remains do not need to be present. The service can look very similar to a traditional funeral, taking place at a funeral home or a church. However, many people choose to do things differently with a memorial service. Some even choose to have a “celebration of life”, which has a decidedly different and more upbeat atmosphere and mood from a typical funeral. There are many options when it comes to planning a memorial service, and you can choose arrangements that will best suit your loved one’s memory. 

Choosing between a funeral and a memorial service will likely depend on the method of disposition that your loved one has chosen. At your funeral home near Holly Hill, SC, you can ask the funeral director for help with selecting and planning your loved one’s arrangements. Whether you want to have a very traditional type of service, or you want to hold a more unique and informal memorial celebration, they can help. Knowing the difference can help you make a better plan for your family and your loved one.