A funeral or memorial service is an opportunity for family, friends and associates to gather, reflect upon and honor the meaning and impact of the life of a deceased loved one. It is a complex blend of religious, psychological, emotional, social and economic dimensions that are interrelated, but individual for each service. A funeral or memorial service, like a wedding, is a ceremonial event that must be planned to coordinate activities and people in a flowing sequence that will help to provide a positive lasting memory for everyone in attendance.

If one does not plan for the inevitable end of their life, then one day a great deal of responsibility will be placed on the shoulders of a spouse or children for final arrangements and settlement of the estate. Because we are living longer and our families are often scattered around the country, advance planning is the responsible gift that provides helpful guidance, emotional support and required information to those who will survive us.