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USEFUL INFO |
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Embalming
Embalming is defined as the preservation of a body from decay, originally with spices and more recently through arterial injection of embalming fluid. The definition is however misleading as the process is generally referred to as cosmetic embalming.
It is used to improve the visual appearance of the body and to prevent deterioration in the period leading up to the funeral. It has no long-term preservative value.
Visitation
At the visitation (also called a "viewing" or "wake") the embalmed body of the deceased person (or decedent) is placed on display in the coffin (also called a casket). The viewing often takes place on one or two evenings before the funeral.
The body will usually be dressed in the decedent's best clothes, which may be slit up the back to facilitate dressing the body. The body will also be adorned with the usual jewellery, including a watch. The jewellery and watch will remain in the casket after burial, but it might be removed before cremation.
Cremation
Cremation is the practice of disposing of a human corpse by burning which often takes place in a crematorium or crematory. Cremation is an increasingly popular alternative for the final disposition of the dead at a funeral.
An obituary
An obituary is a notice of the death of a person, usually published in a newspaper, written or commissioned by the newspaper, and usually including a short biography. It is similar to a death notice (also known as a funeral notice), which is also published on the obituary page. A death notice is a paid advertisement written by family members and placed in the newspaper either by the family or the funeral home.