What is a Funeral?

 

What Is a Funeral?

A funeral is more than just a ceremony - it’s a meaningful way to honour a life, bring people together, and begin the healing process after a loss.

At its core, a funeral is a ritual that allows family and friends to say goodbye, celebrate the life that was lived, and offer comfort to one another. It’s a tradition found in every culture, religion, and corner of the world. And though practices may differ, the purpose remains the same: to remember, to grieve, and to support.


Funeral Myths

  • A Funeral has to involve visitation and a formal ceremony
  • Funerals are different than a Celebration of Life or Wake
  • Funerals have to be at a church or funeral home
  • Funeral Homes don't do Basic Cremations or Celebrations of Life

Funerals come in many forms, especially in today's world. They come in different names such as "Celebration of Life", "Wake", "Memorial Service". Even going out as a family for dinner at their favourite restaurant to celebrate them. All would fall under the Funeral branch. A Funeral can be whatever you wish it to be, there is no right way to have a Funeral. Funeral Homes are fully licensed to provide any services that match your wishes. 

The Purpose of a Funeral

A funeral serves many emotional, cultural, and practical roles:

  • Acknowledging the reality of death
    Coming together in a shared space helps mourners face the finality of loss.

  • Celebrating a life
    Funerals often include stories, music, photos, and memories that reflect the personality and values of the person who has died.

  • Supporting one another
    Grief is less heavy when shared. Funerals create a time and space to comfort each other, whether with a hug, a kind word, or simply by being present.

  • Starting the healing process
    For many, a funeral marks the beginning of moving forward through grief—never forgetting, but slowly adjusting to a new reality.

Types of Funerals

There is no “one way” to have a funeral. Today’s services are more flexible than ever:

  • Traditional Funeral Service
    Includes a viewing or visitation, a formal service (often in a chapel, church, or funeral home), and a burial or cremation.

  • Memorial Service
    Held without the body present, often weeks or months later, this can be more casual or themed around the person’s interests or legacy.

  • Graveside or Committal Service
    A brief ceremony held at the place of burial or interment.

  • Celebration of Life
    A less formal, more personal gathering that focuses on joy and reflection rather than mourning.

Do You Need a Funeral?

While no one is legally required to hold a funeral, many people find comfort in the process. Whether simple or elaborate, religious or secular, public or private, a funeral provides a framework to honor a life and begin the journey of grief with support.

Final Thoughts

A funeral doesn’t have to be about sorrow alone - it can also be about love, connection, and remembrance. Whether you’re planning ahead, supporting someone else, or grieving a loss, understanding what a funeral is - and what it can be - is an important step.

If you ever have questions, need guidance, or want to learn about your options, we’re always here to help.



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