Delivery Worldwide

Involving Family and Friends in Funeral

1 – Music – Have someone musical sing a song, play an instrument, compose a piece of music or even just look after the musical elements of the funeral service, or reception.

2 – Words – There will usually be a friend or family member who will feel comfortable sharing a story, an anecdote or reading a prayer or saying the eulogy. Involve as many of these people as possible as it will make the funeral much more personal.

3 – Images – Most people have a wide variety of friends, clubs, family, networks, work associates and colleagues and each of them know the deceased in a different way. Allow them to share through imagery their own personal memory of the deceased.

4 – Video – Similar to images, there will be videos of friends, family, work events that included the deceased, allow someone to take charge of compiling these with images and music to showcase during the funeral or at the reception.

5 – Greeters – This can be a great way to involve children and teenagers who may not understand what is happening or do not know how to express themselves. It is a task that does not require a huge amount of responsibility but including them in the service is very important for their grieving process and gives them something practical to focus on.

6 – Pallbearers - Typically six men fill the roles of pallbearer at the funeral. However, as is traditional with me - The Glam Reaper, do not be afraid to deviate from tradition and if there are women interested allow them to get involved.

7 – Service – Is there a friend or family member who can perform the ceremony or service, if so, inviting them to get involved in this capacity can be another great way to personalise the funeral. Depending on religion, there is a great amount of freedom to personalise a service in whatever way you deem fitting.

8 – Design – An artist in the family or a graphic designer colleague may wish to participate creatively in the funeral through using their skills and creating an image for display or the Order of Service booklet or a per
Jennifer Muldowney
Jennifer Muldowney

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