Especially if your deceased loved one didn’t specify what kind of service they wanted, it can be challenging to determine the best option. This is where an experienced funeral director can be very helpful. At Funeral Alternatives, our local funeral directors can take your thoughts and budget into account, and then make a recommendation accordingly for which type of service you should hold.
Traditional Funeral Service
During a traditional funeral service, the bodily remains are present in either a coffin or urn. Commonly, these services are held in a church where it is customary for a pastor to sermonize. You may opt to hold a viewing before any speaking begins. As part of a traditional service, there is typically time allotted for surviving loved ones to give a short speech. After the service, the remains are brought by hearse to a cemetery, where a brief graveside service is held.
Memorial Service
For a memorial service, the itinerary is largely the same as a traditional service, but the bodily remains are not present. Such memorial services are commonly held when the date is much later than when the death occurred.
Direct Burial
Direct burial is done when there is no service, which is sometimes requested by people before they pass. Also, for families that are on an especially tight budget, this is sometimes the best option. With a direct burial, there’s still the opportunity to hold a memorial at a later time.
Scattering Ceremony
During a scattering ceremony, a group of close-kit loved ones will release the cremated ashes at a place that holds sentimental value.
Wake
A wake is a traditionally Catholic ceremony where the surviving loved ones offer their respects to the deceased and say the Rosary. But non-Catholic families also often choose to hold a wake, which offers an opportunity for particularly close family members to share some intimate moments of remembrance before the larger service commences.
Funeral Directors in Snohomish County
When you need assistance with planning a service, contact Funeral Alternatives of Snohomish County at 1-888-381-6993. Our reputable funeral directors provide funeral planning in Everett, Lynwood, Mukilteo, Bothell, Lake Stevens, Granite Falls, Darrington, Monroe, Stanwood, Arlington, Tulalip, and Marysville, WA. We also provide funeral services in Seattle, Bellevue, and King County. Feel free to give us a call to ask any questions you have about how to plan a memorable service.
