Why a Memorial Service Matters

For many of us, the loss of a loved one is extraordinarily difficult. The emotions we experience, added to helping those closest to us cope with their grief, can make loss feel insurmountable to even the strongest among us. Because of this, it can be tempting to postpone, or simply decide against, having a memorial service for the deceased – especially when you’ve selected a cremation service. Yet the enormity of grief is precisely why you should take the time to plan a memorial service.

The Act of Grieving

Cultures across the world honor their dead by performing some type of ritual or memorial for the deceased, and our own culture is no exception. While your cultural and religious beliefs may dictate what type of memorial service you plan, the act of planning and performing the memorial service is as much for you and the grieving process of the survivors as it is for honoring the departed.

When a traditional burial is planned, a viewing and memorial service are standard for most families. However, when cremation is selected, it can be tempting to skip these important rituals that help us work through our grief and the complicated feelings that accompany it.

Time and cost are usually the reasons given for why a memorial service is skipped, however a memorial service does not need to be expensive and, ultimately, the time you spend planning and preparing for the service is an investment in your own grieving and healing process, as well as the process of others.

Selecting photos and music, sharing memories, gathering ephemera, and preparing and sharing food are all vital to healthy grief. A memorial service provides that opportunity for you and your family, and gives you something to focus on beyond your inner turmoil. Ultimately, a memorial service is a labor of love and an opportunity for you to celebrate the life of the person you are memorializing.

Shared Experience

A public memorial service is for more than the departed and even his or her immediate family. It’s important to keep in mind that the departed had friends, colleagues, neighbors, and a community that would benefit from the opportunity to say goodbye, too.

By providing a memorial service, you are giving others a chance to pay their respects and share their memories, as well. Likewise, a memorial service allows those closest to you and your family an opportunity to help you through this difficult time. Sadly, many of us are uncomfortable with grief and don’t know how to help, even though we may want too, and memorials can facilitate that connection. You may be surprised by who will step up to help you in your time of need.

At Gramer Funeral Home, we specialize in helping the families of Shelby Township, Royal Oak, Troy, and Clawson plan the memorial service that is right for them. Whether your service will include a traditional viewing and reception, or take a more nontraditional approach, we are humbled to stand by you in this time of need.

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