What is the purpose of a memorial service?

The purpose of a memorial service is to celebrate the life of the deceased without the physical presence of the body. This type of service allows family and friends to come together to honor the memory of the individual, share stories, express emotions, and support each other in their grief. Memorial services are often personalized to reflect the deceased's personality, values, and the impact they had on their loved ones' lives, often focusing more on remembrance than on the act of mourning itself.

While mourning the death of the individual is an important aspect of the grieving process, it is not the primary focus of a memorial service. Similarly, conducting funeral business transactions or discussing estate matters does not align with the core intent of a memorial service, which emphasizes celebration and remembrance rather than logistical or legal concerns.