Guidance on Choosing a Closed Casket Funeral

When families are faced with the decision of whether to have a closed or open casket viewing during their loved one's funeral, it can be a difficult and emotional process. As a funeral director, I play a crucial role in guiding families through this journey, ensuring that they make an informed decision based on their personal beliefs and preferences. This article will explore the factors that influence this decision, the role of the funeral director, and the importance of honoring the wishes of the decedent.

The Role of the Funeral Director

As a funeral director, my primary responsibility is to guide families through the process of planning a funeral that is meaningful and respectful to them. When discussing the option of a closed casket funeral, it's important to have an open and honest conversation about the circumstances surrounding the death. This includes discussing the physical condition of the body and the potential impact on the viewing experience. Embalming, a process used to help preserve the body, has limitations, and certain medical or traumatic conditions may affect the appearance of the body.

Understanding the Issues

I approach this conversation with sensitivity and respect. If the family is comfortable with it, I explain the potential issues that may arise, such as disfigurement or decomposition. I use clear and easy-to-understand language to ensure that the family comprehends the situation fully. For instance, if the body is severely disfigured, I explain the potential issues with leaving any facial injuries exposed and the need for medical intervention to preserve the dignity of the deceased.

Family Reflection

After discussing the issues, I encourage the family to think about what they want to remember about their loved one. I ask them to consider what memories and aspects of the person they wish to celebrate and honor. This includes considering how a closed casket view can still be a respectful and meaningful way to say goodbye, focusing on the person's life rather than the physical body.

Legal Next-of-Kin Involvement

It is crucial to involve the legal next-of-kin in these discussions, as they often hold the power to make final decisions. I guide them to consider what is most important to them and the community attending the funeral, ensuring that the service aligns with the family's values and beliefs.

Advice and Autonomy

While I can offer advice based on experience and ethical considerations, the ultimate decision remains with the family. In some cases, the body may need to be wrapped in bandages or kept closed due to trauma or other reasons. If this is the case, I clearly explain the reasons and the implications for the family decision. However, I ultimately respect their choice and support their decision.

Even when advice is given, the funeral home does not own the remains. The family remains the rightful owner, and the funeral home's role is to provide guidance and support to ensure a respectful service.

Respecting the Decedent's Wishes

When families express that the decedent had specific wishes regarding the viewing, it is my duty to honor those wishes. If the decedent requested a closed casket for reasons such as disfigurement or modesty, I respect those wishes and work to accommodate them. In cases where the decedent expressed a preference to not have their casket exposed, I ensure that the memorial service still honors their memory and reflects their character.

Ultimately, the choice to have a closed casket viewing is a deeply personal decision. It is about preserving dignity, honoring the deceased, and providing a meaningful service for the bereaved. The funeral director can offer guidance, but the final say always rests with the family.

Remembering the life of a loved one is what gives a funeral its irreplaceable value. Whether or not a dead body is the physical focal point, the intent of the service is to celebrate the life that has been lived and the legacy that remains.

By respecting the wishes and guiding the families with empathy and professionalism, we can ensure that every funeral service is a meaningful and respectful farewell to a loved one.