Funeral Services Glossary
Understanding funeral terminology can help make the planning process clearer during a challenging time. Below is a glossary of common funeral terms, thoughtfully explained to assist you and your family.
Glossary of Funeral Terms
Burial
A form of interment where remains are placed underground or in an above-ground tomb. Typically marked by a headstone or monument.
Casket
A container, usually crafted from wood, metal, or biodegradable materials, designed to hold the deceased during burial or cremation.
Coffin
An older term, often narrower and shaped to the body. Today, “casket” is more commonly used.
Urn
A container for holding cremated remains, available in various materials and designs, often personalized to honor the deceased.
Embalming
A preservation technique replacing bodily fluids with chemicals to temporarily maintain the appearance of the deceased for viewings and funerals.
Cremation
A process of reducing the body to ashes, which can be placed in an urn, buried, scattered, or stored according to personal preferences.
Wake or Viewing
A gathering held before the funeral where friends and family pay respects to the deceased, traditionally with the body present.
Memorial Service
A ceremony honoring the deceased without the body present. Often held after cremation or burial.
Hearse
A vehicle designed to transport the casket from the funeral home to the cemetery or service venue.
Pallbearers
Individuals, often close friends or family members, who carry or escort the casket during funeral services.
Cemetery
A designated area for burying or interring remains, typically serene and respectful, accommodating various cultural and religious practices.
Eulogy
A heartfelt speech or tribute celebrating and remembering the deceased, usually delivered during a funeral or memorial service.
Obituary
A published notice announcing the death, often including a biography, service details, and donation requests in lieu of flowers.
Interment
The act of placing remains in their final resting place, either through burial or entombment in structures like a mausoleum or columbarium.
Mausoleum
An above-ground structure, ranging from private to community-shared, for entombing bodies in caskets.
Columbarium
A specialized structure designed to store urns containing cremated remains, available in private and community settings.
Epitaph or Memorial Phrase
A short inscription on a headstone or memorial, reflecting the deceased’s character, life, or beliefs.
We hope this glossary eases some of the confusion and stress associated with funeral planning. At The Gardens of Boca Raton, our dedicated and compassionate team is always ready to guide you through every step of your planning process. Please reach out to us for support and assistance—we’re here for you and your loved ones.