Keep in mind, context, timing, and who is saying them is everything!

More than merely a 'good-bye' to the deceased, this farewell is a summary of events and details listed in chronological order. An obituary also serves as notification that an individual has passed away and details of the services that are to take place. Remember that the obituary needs to appear in print a few days prior to the service. There are some cases where this may not be possible, therefore consider the guidelines below when composing the obituary.

The thought of public speaking throws many people into a panic. Add to that fear the common discomfort of discussing death, and it's easy to understand why the idea of delivering a eulogy can be disconcerting. If you've been asked to write a eulogy, take heart. This article will help you put your fears in perspective so you can deliver a loving eulogy.

The family specifies the type of service conducted for the deceased. Our trained memorial designers will assist in arranging whatever type of service they desire. Celebrations of Life at the family's place of worship or at Lake Ridge Chapel with the deceased present, varies in ritual according to denomination. The presence of friends at this time is an acknowledgement of friendship and support. It is helpful to friends and the community to have an obituary notice published announcing the death and type of service planned.

Visitation - sometimes called the wake, calling hours, or viewing, the visitation is a time for family and friends to gather and support one another in their grief. Often the body is present in an open or closed casket, allowing those who loved the deceased to acknowledge the reality of the death and to have the privilege of saying goodbye. Receiving friends through a visitation activates the family's support system and allows people to express their concern and love for each other.

In order for a cremation to take place there are several things a funeral home must take care of:
• The death certificate must be typed and delivered to attending physician for his signature:
• The signed death certificate and Cremation Authorization Request form are then faxed by the funeral home to the Medical Examiner;
• The Medical Examiner must review the case and give authorization approval for the cremation conferring with the attending physician if necessary;
• Scheduling of the Cremation

The death of a family member or friend not only affects adults, but also can have a profound impact on children. Children experience grief just as adults do. Child experts say that even before children are able to talk, they grieve when someone loved dies. And these feelings about the death become a part of their lives forever.

The Time of Death can be mystifying and troubling to a young person. We at Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers help children understand the processes of dying, death and bereavement and how it affects their lives. Our children's program offers interactive discussions of what the process is when a person dies, what the children will see, and examination of the caskets that helps children deal with the situation in an honest and caring setting before seeing their grandparent or other loved one.