Cathedral City, California

A funeral service, also known as a memorial service or a celebration of life, is a meaningful way to acknowledge, celebrate, and honor the life of a loved one who has passed away. Such a service can bring comfort and peace to those who mourn, uniting people to share in the sorrow of loss and the joy of having known the departed.

There are many ways to celebrate a life, each tailored to the individual being honored and their family. If a loved one has passed, you might have questions about what kind of service to have. You may want to understand the differences between a traditional funeral and a memorial service. Additionally, you might consider pre-arranging your own service to ease the burden on your loved ones and ensure it reflects your unique life.

Types of Funerals

If you’re unsure about the type of funeral service to have, here are the main options:

Traditional Funeral

Formal and often led by a church officiant or funeral director.
Includes hymns, eulogies, and readings.
Can be held with an open or closed casket, or an urn if cremation was chosen.

Memorial Service

Similar to a traditional funeral but without a casket or urn present.
Can occur months or even a year after the death.

Wake

Less formal, may be held at home or a funeral chapel.
Often an open house format with food, music, and casual visiting.
Casket or urn may or may not be present.

Visitation

Time for family to receive visitors and find comfort.
Usually includes an open casket.
Often held the day before or immediately preceding the funeral service.

Celebration of Life

More celebratory and personalized than traditional services.
Can include unique touches and be as traditional or non-traditional as desired.
Examples range from special photo displays to informal gatherings like a beachside barbecue.