Pairing Cremations in South Charleston, WV with a Funeral or Memorial

Receiving the ashes after cremation doesn’t mean that you are done honoring your loved one. If you choose cremation as the solution to lay the body to rest, then you might also plan a funeral or memorial. Families in South Charleston, WV have the flexibility to design custom funeral and cremation services. Our team will listen to your requests and help you work through the necessary details.

Why a Memorial or Funeral?

While a direct cremation might seem appealing to reduce the stress of logistics, it is important to consider the needs of the family. Grief counselors have found that gathering family and friends to mourn the loss can be a healing experience for everyone in attendance. So, it is important that you schedule an event that people can attend to say goodbye.

Just because you are holding an event in honor of your loved one, doesn’t mean that it needs to be a formal gathering. You might prefer the comfort of a traditional funeral. Or, consider other options such as a Celebration of Life or memorial.

Differences Between Funeral and Memorials

There are many similarities between memorials and funerals, which is why these terms are often used as synonyms. But, there is one notable difference that people need to understand: the presence of the body in a casket.

If you choose cremation, then you can hold a funeral with a casket before the cremation. On the other hand, a memorial is held after the cremation is complete. The body is not present at the memorial. You can choose to have the ashes in an urn at the memorial. Or, you might hold the event without the presence of the physical remains.

Traditional funerals and memorials often include eulogies, prayers, greetings, music, and more. Families can customize the program based on the personality of the deceased. Often, religious ceremonies are included in the event. Or, you can maintain a secular program if preferred.

Alternative Memorial Planning

Don’t feel the obligation to stick with tradition if it doesn’t match the needs of your family. Instead, you might hold an informal memorial in the backyard. Or, choose a beautiful destination where the ashes will be scattered after the memorial. A Celebration of Life might include food and a casual environment where people can share memories of the deceased.

You have the opportunity to create an event that honors and respects the person you have lost. So, take the liberties that you desire to design a memorial or funeral that will be memorable for everyone who attends.

If you are considering cremation services in South Charleston, WV, then it is time to talk to our experienced team about other services. We are here to support your decision to hold a memorial or funeral for your loved one. We also offer direct cremation if that is your preference. Contact Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home & Crematorium to learn more about these services. You can visit our funeral home at 1118 Virginia St E Charleston, WV 25301. Or, call if you prefer a consultation over the phone: (304) 342-81351