Funerals are for the living . . . The funeral process serves the emotional needs of those who grieve. Like other ceremonies graduation, wedding, baptism, bar mitzvah a funeral recognizes an important event. The funeral declares that a death has occurred, commemorates the life that has been lived, and offers family and friends the opportunity to pay tribute to their loved one.
Denial is a natural part of the grieving process.
Viewing the deceased helps fulfill the psychological need for closure after a loss. The gathering of extended family and friends helps provide the emotional support to sustain the immediate family as they strive for acceptance and peace. The funeral service can reflect any aspect of the life of the deceased. It may emphasize religious beliefs, ethnic background, professional or social affiliation. The service itself may be as simple or elaborate as you wish.