When planning a funeral in San Pablo, CA, you may feel overwhelmed. Few people think about such things until the time comes, leaving many confused about their options. Here are some of the most common types of funeral services, so you can choose the right one for your family:
Traditional Funeral
A traditional funeral usually involves a wake or visitation beforehand. This allows loved ones to gather and grieve before the funeral service itself. The service is generally held with the body present and may be a religious ceremony specific to the deceased person’s faith. This may be held in a funeral home or a church, although other locations are becoming more common.
Memorial Service
For families who want something less formal, a memorial service could be the perfect choice. This type of service may be conducted with or without the body present, although it is more commonly held after burial or apart from the body. This is also a great option if your loved one is cremated. Memorial services may be secular or of nondenominational faith, so everyone present can relate to the service’s message.
Celebration of Life
A celebration of life is the least formal type of service. This is a good choice for people who do not want a somber service or who would prefer their lives to be celebrated rather than their losses to be mourned. It is also a popular choice in the case of child loss or the passing of a teenager. It may be done before or after burial, and the body is rarely present for the service.
Direct Burial
A direct burial is not as popular in the United States as many other options, but it is important to remember that it is an option. Whether your family is financially constrained or you do not have the option to hold a traditional funeral in San Pablo, CA, direct burial is a way to ensure your loved one receives a respectful burial.
Direct burial may be a choice for families who wish to hold a service later. This was popular during the COVID-19 pandemic. Other reasons for direct burial may be cremation or serious financial issues. In the latter case, many charity organizations are available to help offset the cost of burial, so be sure to check with one or more of these organizations before making your decision. Contact St. Joseph Cemetery & Funeral Center for more information.
