This is one of the more common questions we as funeral directors answer. The answer quite simply is, yes. It is important to know that even when cremation is chosen, a time of visitation or viewing can still take place. This can be scheduled the evening before the service and can be open to the public should the family desire with the cremation taking place overnight; the urn then would be present at the service. Alternatively, some families choose to have a viewing at the time of the service with the cremation following.
More and more families are choosing to call these cremation services "A Celebration of Life" or "A Service of Remembrance" as they want the occasion to have an emphasis on happier times and to celebrate their loved one's life. No matter what you choose to call the service or the emphasis, it is important to commemorate a person's life; to recognize a life lived and to honour someone who has made an impression on your own life.
Cremation services assist us with acknowledging that someone we loved or cared about has died. The service allows us the opportunity to say good-bye, provides a support system for us and our family members, offers continuity and hope for those left behind and allows us the opportunity to reflect on the meaning of death, and life.
Meaningful cremation services allow us the opportunity to express our loss through music, comments and fellowship, in a safe environment. They also help us to move from life prior to death - to life after death. At Memories Chapel, we believe that every family is unique. While we offer various types of services, there are also many ways to personalize the service and make it truly unique as you commemorate the life of your loved one.