What purpose does a funeral serve?

[Escort Rider]

Originally Posted by deevel79

I've always wondered the same thing. They are depressing and bring even more grief to the family and friends who attend. I cant speak for everyone but for me the last image of a loved one that I want in my mind is of them laying in a coffin dead.

You can have a closed casket funeral if you want. Or at least you can if you are the one calling the shots (making the arrangements).

[taulery]

Originally Posted by brokencrayola

A funeral gives the family and friends an opportunity to honor the one that passed. I think it also helps in the grieving process. Sometimes people just can't believe that there loved one has died, and a funeral gives them a good reality check. It allows everyone to say their last goodbyes as well.

I agree. Been to too many funerals. This is so true.

I have seen funeral parlors full of photos, and posters, and drawings. The new thing now is to have a DVD playing for viewing. This is all very helpful.

Scrapbooks and life books, too. I think it is helpful for the living to come to terms with their loved one's passing. Depending upon the religious background, caskets or memorial services with cremated remains, or nothing at all --- each person brings to the gathering their own memories. And good byes.