W hen a person dies, we acknowledge their death by having a funeral, which is the traditional way to honor and pay respect to a loved one. Once we are contacted, the deceased is taken into our care at our funeral home where they are prepared for viewing. As part of the arrangements we will coordinate church, cemetery, newspaper notices, flowers and the luncheon on your behalf. A visitation can be held in conjunction with any choice of final disposition: earth burial, entombment, cremation or scientific donation. Many people believe viewing is important because it allows us to begin accepting the individual’s death by sharing memories and receiving support from others. Following the visitation, a funeral service at the funeral home or church is held. A procession to the cemetery follows and concludes with a brief service. After the funeral it is customary for the family to invite their guests to join them for a funeral luncheon. The gathering of friends and family at a time of death is an important part of the grieving and healing process.