June 10, 2025
Customizing the Farewell: Unique ideas for honoring a loved one.
Pictures
A picture is worth a thousand words. Photos help bring memories to life, spark conversation, and celebrate a person's journey.
There are many ways to use pictures in a funeral service. You can:
- Display printed photos on boards or in albums
- Show a slideshow on a monitor or flat screen
- Play a looping video with background music
Selecting photos can be a healing process. As family members sort through memories, stories often come up, helping shift focus from the loss to the life that was lived.
When planning how to share photos, consider timing. How long will guests be standing or watching? Talk to your funeral director—they can guide you on how to present pictures effectively, or even suggest showing more than one video during different parts of the service.
Music
Music reflects a person’s life and personality. Whether it’s Frank Sinatra, a church hymn, or a rock anthem, the right music can bring comfort and connection.
Don’t be afraid to choose music that truly represents your loved one—even if it’s outside the traditional. Want to end the service with a favorite loud song? Ask. Your funeral director can help you include music in a way that’s meaningful and respectful.
Stories
Stories help us remember. A good speaker can make us laugh, cry, and feel close to the person we’ve lost.
Choose your speakers carefully. Ask what they plan to say—surprises aren’t always welcome at funerals. This goes for clergy as well, especially if they didn’t know the deceased personally.
Ask your funeral director for advice on how many speakers to include and how long they should speak. Avoid repetition—hearing the same story twice can be awkward.
If no one in your circle is comfortable speaking, ask your funeral director if a Funeral Celebrant is available in your area.
Passions
Passions help define a life. Whether it was a favorite team, a beloved hobby, or a meaningful career, these interests can be part of the service.
There are many ways to reflect a loved one’s passions:
- Personalized caskets or memorial items
- Small keepsakes or favors for guests
- Sharing a favorite recipe or hobby
Talk to your funeral director—they can help you find thoughtful ways to honor what mattered most to your loved one.
Faith
When everyone shares the same faith, this part of the service often comes together easily. But differences in beliefs within a family can complicate planning.
Typically, the service reflects the beliefs of the deceased. If the person wasn’t religious but close family members are, sensitivity and compromise may be needed. Your funeral director can help navigate these discussions and offer solutions that respect everyone’s needs.
In Summary
A meaningful funeral reflects the life lived and brings comfort to those left behind. It may include pictures, music, stories, faith, and personal passions.
Funeral directors are there to help, but they can’t know what matters unless you tell them. Families should communicate clearly and openly with each other and with the director. If something is important, say so.
With collaboration and thoughtful planning, the funeral can be a healing experience that honors your loved one and supports those who mourn.
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