Saying goodbye to a loved one is a deeply personal experience. Some families prefer traditional services, while others want something unique to the deceased, called celebrations of life. There are several differences between these memorial services and traditional funeral services. Here is a helpful guide to ensure you choose the right option for your loved one. 

Funeral Service

Funeral services are often centered around religious ceremonies and long-standing customs. They’re often hosted in a funeral home and led by a religious figure the family has chosen. A funeral director and the funeral home oversee guest comfort and accommodations; prior to the funeral date, they’ll also help with organizing the event. During the ceremony, religious figures quote scripture and offer prayers for the deceased and surviving family members. After comes a burial or committal service at a cemetery or funeral vault where the deceased is finally laid to rest.

Many families choose traditional funeral services because they’re deeply meaningful and less stressful because they don’t have to make a lot of complicated decisions. Instead, they can lean on the leadership or the funeral director and religious leader of their choosing.

Celebration of Life

Celebrations of life are hybrid memorial services that contain elements of a funeral and details that focus on the life of the deceased. They may be led by family and friends rather than a religious figure and will use a variety of resources, including music, photos, videos, and speeches from guests to showcase the deceased. People may tell stories at this memorial service, and the celebration of life is usually held after the deceased has been cremated or after the burial service. 

Residents of Martinsburg, WV, and surrounding communities rely on Brown Funeral Homes & Cremations for their funeral services and after-life needs. These professionals understand the difficulty of losing a loved one and planning after-life care. Whether you need funeral pre-planning, a memorial service, cremation services, or after-life products, their compassionate staff will work closely with you to alleviate the burden. Call (304) 263-8896 to schedule a consultation. Visit their website to explore all their memorial services, and connect on Facebook for news and updates.