What is a memorial service?

A memorial service is defined as a ceremony that takes place to honor and remember the deceased, typically performed without the physical presence of their remains. This type of service allows friends and family to come together to share stories, express their grief, and support one another in their time of loss, focusing on the life of the individual rather than the specifics of the death itself.

The distinction is significant because some services, such as traditional funerals, often include the deceased's body, emphasizing the cycle of life and death. However, a memorial service provides more flexibility regarding timing and location, as it can occur weeks or months after the passing when family and friends can gather in remembrance without the potential somber atmosphere that can accompany a funeral with the remains present.