For many centuries, funerals have been an important ritual that has been practiced by every culture in various ways. In the American culture, the traditional funeral service is still the preferred method of gathering family and community together at the time of the loss of a loved one. In addition to providing a forum to share spiritual values and beliefs, funerals assist mourners in taking the first steps in the grief process by reinforcing the reality of death. Funerals also encourage the sharing of memories that celebrate the life and love of the deceased.

A recent trend in funerals has been the many ways
in which a funeral can be personalized. Family
photos, favorite hymns or songs, poems and readings, and special mementos displayed at the visitation and service help express those things that were important to the deceased. They also provide an opportunity to share memories and stories—an
important healing step in the grief process.

The staff at Spence Funeral Services assists families in planning and personalizing meaningful funeral services that reflect the life a loved one has lived.