What is a "memorial service"?

What is a "memorial service"?

Dan Redmond (Cemetery and Funeral Inspector, California Department of Consumer Affairs ) gives expert video advice on: What are the basic considerations when planning a funeral?; Do I need to use a funeral home to have a funeral?; What are the customary elements of a funeral? and more...

A memorial service is usually held when the body is not present. That could be for several different reasons. One, it could be convenient for the family and friends to be able to get together all at the same time, and the interment may have already taken place. Another reason for a memorial service may be if the person had a lot of friends and family, the family sometimes may want to have a private funeral service, and then a memorial service after so that anybody can attend.