An overview of the different types of funeral services
There is no right or wrong way to celebrate, honour and reflect on a loved ones life when they pass; Whether you have a large celebration of life or no service at all. Take the time as a family, to consider how you would like to honour your loved one. And in what unique ways we can celebrate their life to provide an authentic goodbye to truly reflect the person you had all known & loved.
A Classic Funeral
A classic funeral can look different to many different families, you can lean more towards traditions; whether cultural or religious and follow those customs and may include viewings, processions, and formal ceremonies or create a “Celebration of Life” service, that is a heartfelt tribute focusing on joy, accomplishments, and shared memories.
The service can be held in one of our modern chapels, a church or at a venue such as surf life saving club, park or private residence. The service is then followed by a cremation or burial.
If you choose to hold the service in a church a clergy member will conduct the service. Alternatively, a clergy member, family member or celebrant can conduct the service at any other location.
Following the service a wake may be held to provide family and friends a chance to recall memories, share stories and come together over light refreshments.
A Memorial Service
A memorial service providing a less traditional style with no coffin present.
A memorial service is often focused on celebrating and reflecting on the life of your loved one, rather than the act of saying goodbye. It provides an opportunity for creativity and can be tailored to more closely reflect your loved one’s personality and preferences.
ON OVERVIEW
The Coffin: A memorial service is a service where the coffin in not present and can be held either before the cremation or burial takes place, or afterwards. If a cremation has taken place, you may wish to have your loved one's ashes to be present at the service.
Ceremony: Memorial services tend to be more flexible and can vary greatly in format. They may include speeches, readings, music, and sharing of memories by family and friends.
Location and Style: A memorial service can be held almost anywhere, including a the family home, a park, community centre, function venue, or places that had special significance to your family. We encourage you to celebrate your loved one by personalising the service to suit their style and personality.
Timing: Because they are not tied to the burial or cremation process, memorial services offer more flexibility in scheduling and can be held day, weeks or monthly after their passing.
No Service - cremation or burial only
If your loved one had a wish for 'No Fuss' then you may wish to consider holding no funeral service at all.
Again, each family and loved one is different, and it may be best to continue with their wishes, however, research shows the importance of a service in the grieving process to assist with closure.
CREMATION ONLY:
Direct cremation is a process where the body is cremated soon after death without a preceding traditional funeral service, viewing, or visitation.
It is a gentle and straightforward way to honour your loved one's passing.
BURIAL ONLY:
Burial only is where your loved one is laid to rest soon after death without a preceding funeral service, viewing, or visitation, in a pre-planned or arranged burial plot.
Our helpful staff will guide you through this process to ensure the correct paperwork is completed and legalities are met.
For specific cultural services and proceedings, please see below 'Cultural and Religious Options'
Cultural and Religious Options
At Pettigrew Family Funerals, we are all inclusive and cater to each and every cultural and religious beliefs and will always do our best to ensure these requests are met in an appropriate way.
Our experienced team will work with your family to understand and adhere to specific traditions and beliefs in creating a meaningful service for your loved one.