What to Expect at a Funeral

Unsure what to expect at a funeral? Learn about the typical proceedings, etiquette, and ways to show respect, providing comfort during a difficult time.

We’ve all been there. Going to a funeral can be a little daunting, especially if it’s your first or if it’s been awhile since you attended one. Let’s talk a little bit about some of the terms you will hear and what you can expect in general.

There’s a great deal of variety in funeral service today. The funeral home works with the surviving family to help them choose service options that reflect their lifestyle and belief system. The spouse, parents, or children of the deceased determine the content of the service.

The service typically includes:

A gathering or visitation
A religious ceremony
Burial or placement in a final resting location (committal)
A luncheon, brunch, or wake

The gathering may be held the evening before the service or the same day as the service.

The religious part of the service may be held in the funeral home chapel or in the family’s place of worship.

At the conclusion of the service, a procession will usually travel to the graveside where the casketed body will be buried. Cremated remains may be buried, placed in a niche, presented to a family member for keeping, or scattered.

The committal service is often followed by a meal at the church, the funeral home’s celebration center, the family home, or a restaurant.

If you are attending a gathering or visitation that takes place before the service, the body may or may not be present. When the body is present in an open casket, attendees will usually approach the casket briefly and silently say a few words of farewell or prayer.

The family may choose to receive their guests informally and casually engage in conversation as they circulate among those attending or they may choose to receive guests in a more formal receiving line.

If you are attending a memorial service, the body will not be present. A memorial service may take place weeks or even months after the passing and may or may not include the presence of cremated remains.

The family may choose to have a memorial service for a variety of reasons. Some religions require that the body be buried immediately, necessitating service after burial. Some families just need more time to come together.

How we celebrate a life is often less formal today.

The service may include pictures and music that reflect the lifetime of the deceased. Work or interests of the deceased are often reflected in objects placed in the room or favors shared with attendees.

Attendees may participate by sharing memories of the deceased. A family member or celebrant may also tell the life story in the form of a eulogy.

Funerals are an important part of the grief journey that all families must travel when they lose a family member.

We attend to support and help the family members transition their thoughts from the cause of death to the life’s legacy. This is so they can begin their long healing process.

Your attendance is appreciated and important.

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How to Add Unique Touches to a Memorial Design

November 24, 2025

Every life tells a story filled with memories, passions, and meaningful moments. At Connell Funeral Home, Inc., we believe that a memorial should beautifully reflect that story. Families looking for cremation services Allentown, PA often want a personalized way to celebrate their loved one’s journey, one that honors their individuality and legacy with heartfelt detail. The Importance of Personalization A meaningful memorial goes beyond formality; it’s an expression of love. By incorporating personal touches into a service or remembrance, families can create a setting that truly feels like their loved one. Whether it’s a favorite color palette, cherished music, or décor inspired by hobbies and interests, these small but powerful details transform a service into a lasting tribute. Personalization also helps families heal. When the environment reflects the person being remembered, it evokes shared stories and joyful memories that foster connection and comfort. A thoughtfully designed memorial reminds everyone that even in loss, a beautiful life continues to inspire. Creative Ways to Personalize a Memorial There’s no single “right” way to design a meaningful memorial. The best approach is one that feels authentic to your loved one’s personality and life story. Here are a few creative ideas that can make any service more memorable: Memory Displays: Showcase photos, letters, and keepsakes that highlight meaningful moments throughout your loved one’s life. Favorite Music or Readings: Choose songs, poems, or passages that held special significance, setting a tone that feels personal and familiar. Thematic Décor: Use decorations that reflect passions—like gardening, travel, art, or sports—to create a space that feels warm and genuine. Interactive Elements: Memory walls or guest books allow family and friends to share stories, words of encouragement, and reflections. Video Tributes: A short film of treasured photos and clips can beautifully capture a lifetime of love and laughter. Each of these elements adds a deeper layer of meaning, helping attendees connect emotionally and celebrate a life well-lived. Designing a Lasting Legacy A memorial is also an opportunity to create something that endures a place, keepsake, or tradition that continues to honor your loved one. Families often choose to include a personal touch in lasting forms, such as engraved tokens, memory gardens, or digital memorials that preserve stories for generations. We help guide families in creating these lasting symbols of remembrance. Our team works closely with you to bring your vision to life, ensuring every detail feels intentional and true to your loved one’s legacy. How We Support Personalized Memorials Personalization doesn’t have to be complicated, it’s about capturing the essence of a life. From intimate gatherings to larger celebrations, we offer the flexibility and guidance families need to plan meaningful tributes. Whether you envision a traditional ceremony or a creative, story-driven experience, our compassionate staff will help you design a service that feels right. For inspiration and ideas, explore our planning resources , where we share helpful insights to guide you through the process with care and confidence. A Tribute as Unique as the Life It Honors At Connell Funeral Home, Inc., we take pride in helping families design memorials that truly capture the heart of their loved one’s life story. Through creativity, compassion, and thoughtful collaboration, we create spaces that bring comfort and connection. If you’re exploring cremation services Allentown, PA that allow for personalized, meaningful memorials, we invite you to connect with our team and discover how we can help you celebrate a life beautifully lived.