Making decisions about a loved one’s final arrangements can be an emotional and challenging process. One significant decision that families often face is whether to have an open casket or a closed casket during the funeral service. This decision is deeply personal, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. In this blog post, we explore the considerations surrounding open casket vs. closed casket funerals and touch on alternative options like cremation.
Open Casket Funerals: Honoring Memories 
An open casket funeral involves having the deceased’s body on display for mourners to see. This option allows family and friends to pay their respects and say their final goodbyes while providing a visual connection to the person they loved. Here are some reasons why families may choose an open casket funeral:
Ironically, an Open Casket Offers Closure
An open casket can help loved ones accept the reality of the person’s passing and provide a sense of closure.
Honor Traditions with an Open Casket
In some cultures and religions, open casket viewings are an essential part of the grieving and funeral process, honoring age-old traditions.
Sharing Memories at Viewings
Opening the casket allows friends and family to share stories and memories about the deceased, fostering a sense of community and connection.
Closed Casket Funerals vs Open Casket Memorials: Privacy and Personal Choice
On the other hand, some families opt for a closed casket funeral, where the casket remains closed during the service. This choice offers privacy and can be beneficial for several reasons:
Respect for Appearance
If the deceased’s appearance has been significantly altered due to illness or injury, a closed casket may be preferred to preserve their dignity and memory.
Emotional Comfort
Grief can be overwhelming, and for some, the sight of their loved one’s body may be too emotionally distressing. A closed casket can provide emotional comfort.
Focus on Memories
Closed casket services encourage mourners to focus on the memories and legacy of the deceased rather than their physical appearance.
Wakes and Viewings: Honoring Traditions
Wakes and viewings are common practices that often precede funeral services. During these events, mourners can pay their respects and share condolences with the family. The choice between open and closed casket is an integral part of these gatherings. Some cultures expect an open casket. And even if they do, in some cases, the cause of death may preclude this option. Your funeral director will be happy to discuss this with you.
Alternative Options: Cremation and More
In addition to open and closed casket funerals, you may consider these alternative options:
Cremation
Regular and Bio Cremation are becoming increasingly popular choices. These allow for flexibility in planning memorial services, such as scattering ashes in a meaningful location or holding a memorial service without a casket.
Green Burials
For those who want to minimize the environmental impact, green burials involve burying the deceased in a biodegradable container or shroud without embalming fluids, preserving natural landscapes.
Memorial Services
Families can opt for memorial services without the physical presence of the deceased, allowing for more flexibility in location and timing.
At Foothill Funeral, we are here to support you in making the choices that best reflect your loved one’s wishes and your family’s needs. We offer a range of services and can help you plan a funeral or memorial that honors your loved one’s memory in a way that feels right for you.
About Foothill Funeral & Cremation in Glendora, California
Funeral directing is a unique job. The reason we enjoy it is because we love helping families during their time of need. Drop by our Glendora showroom any time. In Covina, our relationship with Sacred Heart Chapel is the perfect place for mourners to host funerals and memorial services in a grandiose yet intimate setting. We proudly serve the San Gabriel Valley, San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles Basin, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. Working in the mortuary industry since 1996, we have worked hard to build a reputation of quality, sincerity, and trust. Please allow us to help you at your time of need or in the future. Call today (626) 335-0615 or drop by our showroom.