living funerals
living funeral | the party of a lifetime | living celebration of life with the honoree | fare-thee-well celebration | goodbye celebration | living wake | pre-funeral
These ceremonies are for the terminally ill or advanced in age who wish to celebrate their life with their friends and family. This ceremony provides the opportunity to share stories of love, laughter, and life lessons.
Basically, there are no rules for a living funeral. Features that are often part of a traditional funeral such as: eulogy, readings, music, poems are also part of this celebration. The person being honored may choose to give a speech to talk about life lessons, funny anecdotes, blessings and most of all gratitude for their loved ones in their life!
To some, this may seem strange. But, ask yourself how many times have you attended a funeral and thought, “Wow, how wonderful! Too bad 'Uncle Bob' was not living to hear all of these wonderful stories about him.” The guest of honor can see and hear for themselves how many people love them. It also gives everyone an opportunity to express their feelings and give their final goodbye. These celebrations need not be called “funeral”… I prefer “The Party of a Lifetime!”
Read more about living funerals:
US Funeral Guide & Comprehensive Funeral Homes Directory
The New York Times article: "At His Own Wake, Celebrating Life and the Gift of Death"