What are the different types of funeral?
There's no single "right" way to say goodbye. Every funeral can be shaped around the person who has died and the needs of those left behind.
Below is a guide to the most common types of funerals, with simple explanations and what to expect from each.
Traditional Funeral
A traditional funeral is the most familiar format, often including a service followed by a burial or cremation.
What We Provide:
- •A service at a church, chapel, or crematorium
- •A hearse and procession
- •Family and friends in attendance
- •Readings, hymns, or prayers
- •Burial or cremation immediately after
Celebration of Life
A celebration of life focuses on remembering the person in a more personal and uplifting way, rather than a formal or religious service.
What We Provide:
- •Stories, memories, and personal tributes
- •Music that reflects the person's life
- •A less formal setting (venue, home, or outdoors)
- •Flexible timing (can be held weeks later)
- •A positive, reflective atmosphere
Memorial Service
A memorial service takes place without the person present (no coffin), often held after a burial or cremation.
What We Provide:
- •A service held days or weeks later
- •Greater flexibility on location and timing
- •Space for larger gatherings
- •Personal tributes and speeches
- •Option to include photos or videos
Graveside Service
A graveside service is held at the burial site, often shorter and more intimate.
What We Provide:
- •Ceremony at the grave or burial plot
- •Shorter duration (typically 15-30 minutes)
- •Immediate burial following the service
- •Can be held before or instead of a main service
- •Smaller, more intimate gathering
Direct Cremation
A direct cremation is a straightforward option, without a funeral service or mourners present.
What We Provide:
- •No ceremony or viewing before cremation
- •Cremation performed within days
- •Ashes returned to family for scattering or storing
- •Most cost-effective option
- •Option to hold a separate memorial service later
Direct Burial
A direct burial is a straightforward and simple service option without a formal funeral service beforehand.
What We Provide:
- •Burial without a preceding funeral service
- •More economical option
- •Family can arrange a memorial service afterward
- •Burial takes place within a few days
- •Simple and dignified
Child & Baby Funerals
There are few things more heartbreaking than losing a child. We provide compassionate and sensitive support for families during this deeply difficult time.
What We Provide:
- •Tailored to the child's age and family's wishes
- •Gentle, compassionate guidance throughout
- •Memorial options and keepsakes
- •Support for siblings and extended family
- •Additional bereavement support available
More from Gills
Timeline & What to Expect
We will guide you through each stage so you always know what is happening and when.
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After the Funeral
Recording your wishes now can bring peace of mind and ease the burden on your family.
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Funeral costs and pricing
Clear and transparent information about funeral costs and payment options.
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