Good Etiquette Guide for the Surviving Family – After the Funeral is Over

What to Do After the Funeral Service Acknowledgements (Thank You Notes) See Sending Thank You Notes Ashes (cremains, or cremated remains) Etiquette demands the utmost respect for human remains. We also feel an obligation to respect the final wishes of our loved ones. That does not, however, mean it’s acceptable to break the law, and laws are quite strict regarding the disposal or scattering of human remains, including ashes.


Robert Ferguson’s Eulogy

“My father was 75 years old and he lived a very full life. He did everything that he set out to do. Where I come from, in the Celtic tradition it’s kind of a wake where we talk about the person’s life, there’s a lot of drinking usually, but of course I won’t be taking part in that. I think others may get involved in that for obvious reasons.


Steve Irwin’s Eulogy

More on Eulogies Choosing a Eulogy Theme Writing a Heartfelt Eulogy How to Organize a Eulogy


Famous Eulogies

U.S. Leaders President John F. Kennedy's Funeral Eulogy by Senator Jacob Javits at a Senate Memorial Service President Ronald Reagan's Eulogy presented by President Bush President Gerald R. Ford's Eulogy presented by Tom Brokaw Edward (Ted) Kennedy's Eulogy presented by President Obama


Choosing a Eulogy Theme

When putting together a eulogy, one of the most important things to consider is the kind of theme you are going to use. There are many ways to go about this, but there are three main types of themes to consider: biographical, personal, and specialized. Biographical Themes


New Orleans Jazz Funeral Service Rituals

The tradition of the New Orleans jazz funeral has fallen away somewhat in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, but has not been forgotten. Although the wild music and dancing has, historically, flown in the face of prevailing sentiments about the required solemnity of the traditional memorial service, the New Orleans jazz funeral grew throughout the 20th century to achieve its own respected standing among the many ways to commemorate the passage of a loved one.


An Overview of Modern Day Wakes

The concept of the wake is coming back into practice in certain circles. There are things to be said for wakes, but you must be careful when deciding whether or not to host a wake. Some people grasp the idea wholeheartedly. It becomes a way of paying respects to the deceased without drowning in your sorrow. But others can be put off, or even offended, by the idea.



Guide to Readings and Poems for Funeral Ceremonies

Whether you’re planning in advance or looking for the proper tribute for a loved one, here you will find suggested readings for numerous occasions and in a variety of forms and styles. A memorial reading can be chosen because it was a favorite, triggers memories of the deceased, pays tribute or helps family and friends communicate emotions.


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