Go Your Own Way: Different Types of Funerals

03 Oct Go Your Own Way: Different Types of Funerals

Funerals are deeply personal events that provide an opportunity for loved ones to say their final farewells and pay respects to the person who has died. Many people do not even like to think about their funeral requests, believing that somehow this may hasten their passing. However, it can be a real comfort to those you leave behind if they have some idea of what you would like to happen. Religious, cultural and other wishes need to be considered. Some faiths have set patterns and services for funeral arrangements. Some people leave extensive instructions about their wishes, some just state their preference between burial and cremation.

There are various types of funeral arrangements available, each tailored to the preferences and traditions of the deceased and their family. Some of the different types of funeral arrangements commonly seen are:

A Traditional Funeral

The traditional funeral is the most common type of funeral arrangement in the UK. It usually involves a formal service held in a place of worship, funeral home, or crematorium chapel. The service may include readings, prayers, hymns, and eulogies, providing an opportunity for mourners to share memories and bid farewell. Following the service, there is a procession to the burial site or crematorium for the final committal.

Cremation Funeral

Cremation funerals have become increasingly popular due to their flexibility and cost-effectiveness. The deceased’s body is cremated, and the cremated remains (ashes) are placed in an urn. Families can choose to hold a funeral service before or after the cremation, allowing for greater flexibility in the timing and location of the ceremony.

Green Funeral

More concern about environmental sustainability has meant green funerals have become popular. Green funerals emphasize minimal impact on the environment, with biodegradable coffins, sustainable burial grounds, and eco-friendly memorial options. This type of funeral allows the deceased to return to nature in a more harmonious way.

Direct Cremation

Direct cremation is a simple and cost-effective option where the deceased is cremated without a formal funeral service. Families can arrange a memorial service or celebration of life at a later date if desired. Direct cremation appeals to those seeking a no-fuss, no-frills farewell.

Home Funeral

Home funerals, also known as family-led or DIY funerals, involve families caring for the deceased at home after death. This approach allows loved ones to be intimately involved in the funeral arrangements, from washing and dressing the body to hosting a private farewell ceremony at home.

Humanist or Non-Religious Funeral

Humanist or non-religious funerals are designed for those who were not affiliated with any particular faith or religion. These ceremonies celebrate the life of the deceased through personalized readings, music, and speeches.

Themed or Personalised Funeral

Some individuals opt for themed funerals that reflect their passions or interests. From Harley-Davidson processions for bikers to superhero-themed send-offs, these unique arrangements celebrate the deceased’s individuality.

Memorial Service

Memorial services are often held separately from the funeral or cremation and provide an opportunity for friends and family to gather and remember the deceased. These events can be religious or non-religious, depending on the preferences of the family.

All funeral arrangements allow families to honour the memory of their loved ones in a way that reflects their personalities, beliefs, and values. Whether it’s a traditional service, a green burial, or a personalised celebration, the diversity of funeral arrangements available ensures that every farewell is as unique as the individual being remembered.

Making some notes about what you would like to happen when you pass away could make life that little bit easier for the people you leave behind when you pass away. Choosing your hymns, readings and music for your service could mean your loved ones do not need to try to make these decisions at such a difficult time.