When you choose cremation, you can have a full funeral service, with your loved one present in a casket. After the visitation and service, cremation is performed.

Our funeral ceremony prior to cremation package includes a time of visitation where family members can greet guests and reminisce. Following the visitation is the funeral service. The service can be held at our funeral home, at a church or other venue of your choosing.

When your guests arrive, they are asked to sign a guestbook. This can be an important record for you to look at later because sometimes it is not possible to personally speak with each guest. Memorial donations are usually collected for a charity in memory of your loved one.

The service is typically led by a member of the clergy or other important community figure, who leads you and your guests through a series of readings, prayers, hymns, or other rituals. You might choose to have musicians play a series of favorite songs, or play recordings. The officiant may invite guests to speak, or read letters or messages if it is too difficult for loved ones to speak during the service. Depending on the type of funeral that takes place, a series of important religious rituals may follow.

Many families choose to host a reception after the service, which provides a more relaxed atmosphere to share memories, catch up and comfort each other. We can help you host a reception at our funeral home or at another facility. For more information about reception options, please see this article.

These familiar elements and rituals can bring comfort during a time of loss. If you prefer a more informal type of gathering, please take a look at our articles on creative funeral ideas.