When saying goodbye to a loved one, there can be a lot of pressure to get the funeral right as there are lots of options to choose from. Funerals are a very personal thing, and reflect the life of the deceased. Planning ahead is always the best idea as this makes things easier for those you leave behind, particularly when there are lots of different types of funerals to choose from. In this guide we will look at each type, providing an insight into what each option offers.
1. Traditional burial funeral
This is one of the most common types of funeral and involves a religious service followed by a burial in a cemetery. The ceremony may take place in a church or at the graveside itself, and the service usually includes readings, music, eulogies and prayers. After the service, the body is transported to the burial site where it is interred in the ground. A burial funeral is suitable for families who wish to maintain tradition.
2. Cremation funeral
Cremation is a popular alternative to burials and is where the body is cremated at a crematorium. The ashes are then returned to the family who can choose to scatter them, keep them in an urn or bury them. Cremation can be accompanied by a traditional service, or you can opt for a direct cremation which skips the formal service. This is a lower-cost option as there is no need to hire someone to carry out the service itself.
3. Green (natural) funeral
Green (eco-friendly) funerals are growing in popularity, particularly for those who are environmentally-conscious. These types of funerals aim to minimise the impact on the environment by using bio-degradable materials. Green burials take place in designated natural burial grounds, where the body is interred in a biodegradable coffin.
4. Non-religious funeral
These are often called humanist funerals and don’t include any religious rituals at all. These are popular options for those who don’t follow a particular faith, as the service focuses on the person’s life, values and the impact they had on others. Humanist funerals are often conducted by a celebrant who helps design a personalised service. They can take place in a crematorium, burial site, or any other meaningful location.
5. Direct funeral
A direct funeral is unattended, so the body is cremated or buried without a formal service or mourners present. People who want a minimalist approach often have direct funerals, or those wanting to avoid the costs associated with a traditional funeral. The family may then choose to hold a memorial service at a later date.
6. Military funeral
These are reserved for members of the armed forces and veterans, and are a ceremonial farewell that honours their service to the country. Military funerals are conducted with military honours - usually with a military escort, the playing of ‘The Last Post’, and a coffin draped with a flag. The ceremony can be religious or non-religious, depending on what the family requests.
7. Celebration of life
A celebration of life is a more upbeat alternative to a traditional funeral, focusing on remembering the positives of the deceased’s life. They are often filled with joy and laughter, and lots of happy memories are shared. Tributes and readings can still happen, but they tend to be more relaxed and personal to the deceased. Celebrations of life can be held anywhere, and the focus is on creating a meaningful experience to remember the person who has passed away.
Choosing the right type of funeral is a completely personal decision and only those who know the deceased best will be able to decide. It is always a good idea to have open conversations with loved ones about their preferences so no difficult decisions have to be made at the time.
