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How to Create a Meaningful Memorial Program

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT

If you are attending services at funeral homes in Freeport, IL , you may be tasked with creating the memorial program. While you want to help the family and complete this task, you may be a little nervous about doing so. Since this is something most people have never had to create before, not knowing things like what to include, how big it should be, and more can leave you feeling a little anxious. Keep reading as we cover what you need to know to make a touching program.

What is a Memorial Program?

First of all, if you are not familiar with a memorial program, these are pamphlets that are handed out before the service. Sometimes called funeral programs, these programs list the order of service, names of who will be completing specific elements of the service, as well as other information such as the obituary and special thank you messages from the family.

These programs are typically four pages in length and include a cover, front inside right page, front inside left page, and back cover. The size of these programs is normally 8.5” x 5.5”. This is the size if you take a letter-sized sheet of paper, hold it landscape and fold it in half.

Order of Information

As mentioned, memorial programs are typically four pages in length. Each page has a typical layout and information specified for that page. The layout looks like this:

Personalizing the Program

While memorial programs follow a structured outline and format, there are several ways to incorporate some of your loved one’s personality into the piece. One of the ways is with the font selection. Fonts can evoke certain feelings and emotions.

Select a font that represents your loved one. Were they bubbly and silly? Maybe opt for a cursive or handwritten, bubbly font. Perhaps they were very serious and logical. If so, a minimal, simple font may be a good choice.

Whichever font you choose, just make sure it can be easily read and prints well. You don’t want to sacrifice the readability for the decorative element it may bring.

Some other elements you can use to personalize the program are:

You can always feel free to add more pages to the program. While you don’t want it so long it is overwhelming to guests, there is nothing that says you can’t add another page or two and include additional content.

If you have been asked to create a program for a loved one’s services at funeral homes in Freeport, IL, consider it a great honor. While you may be nervous about it, it means the family trusts you with this very important task. Just create it from a place of love and respect and you will be sure to create a meaningful program.

The post How to Create a Meaningful Memorial Program appeared first on Blog | Rockford, IL Funeral Home & Cremation | Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD. .

Sending Sympathy Thank You Cards

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Losing a loved one is never easy. It is the support and love of friends and family that helps us get through this difficult time. If you would like to thank those who stood by you and assisted you through your loved one’s cremation services in Belvidere, IL , you might consider sending sympathy thank you cards.

What Are Sympathy Thank You Cards?

Also called funeral thank you cards, sympathy thank you cards are a thoughtful way to express gratitude to those who offered their condolences and helped you in your time of need. They may have done this by:

You can send these cards to anyone you wish, no matter how big or small their helpful gesture was. Everyone will also appreciate a kind word sent to them in the mail.

What Do I Write?

To start off, make sure you include the recipient’s name. This could begin with “Dear (name).” Next, you will add the “thank you” portion of the note. Don’t worry if you are not sure what to write. Sometimes, even though we may feel gratefulness in our hearts, it may be difficult to put into words. Luckily, you don’t have to be a great poet and you don’t even have to write much at all. It truly is the thought and the time you are taking that the people receiving the cards will appreciate.

Some examples you could write are:

After the “thank you” portion, you will want to add a closing sentence such as “You are a wonderful friend.”

The last thing is to sign your name. Most people will add something such as “All my love”, “Take care” or “Sincerely” before signing their name but you certainly don’t have to.

When to Send the Cards

Typically, sending the cards out within two to three weeks of the services is best. However, with that being said, sometimes this doesn’t happen. If it has been longer, don’t rule out sending the cards. Your recipients will appreciate the token of gratitude no matter how long it takes to get to them. Also, your friends are going to understand if the cards take a little longer and are not going to judge you.

Tip: If you have a lot of people to send cards to and feel yourself getting overwhelmed, simply split the list into smaller lists. Then, just tackle one list at a time. You can also recruit other family members to help.

After your loved one’s cremation services in Belvidere, IL, sending out these cards not only acts as a nice token to those who supported you but can also be a healing project as it gives you something positive to focus on.

The post Sending Sympathy Thank You Cards appeared first on Blog | Rockford, IL Funeral Home & Cremation | Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD. .

Driving in a Funeral Procession: What You Need to Know

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Attending funeral services for a loved one at funeral homes in Belvidere, IL can bring with it all types of emotions. You may probably be feeling sadness, loss, and grief. If you are to drive in the funeral procession and haven’t done this before, you may also have feelings of being anxious or nervous. After all, driving in a procession has different rules of the road than normal driving and you want to ensure you do everything correctly. No need to worry as we are going to cover everything you need to know.

When You Arrive at the Funeral Service

When you arrive at the funeral home or other set location of the service , the family will most likely have parking attendants to help you with your car. You will let these attendants know that you will be driving in the funeral procession after the service, and they will park your car in the procession line.

Order of the Procession

When the service ends, the guests who are driving in the procession will make their way to their vehicles. There is an order to the cars so make sure to stay in the order your vehicle was placed in.

The order typically goes like this:

Driving in the Procession

Driving in a funeral procession has its own set of rules . First of all, you will be driving slowly. Typically the speed is about 30-40 mph on most city roads and a maximum of 55 mph on any highways.

Also, while normal driving, you want to keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you, in a procession, you do not need this extra space. In fact, you want to be very close to the car in front of you. This will reduce the chance of someone who is not in the procession from getting in your line.

Not only do you want to stay close to the car in front of you while driving, but this also goes when you come to things like stoplights. If the light is turning yellow or even if it is red, continue through as the procession has the right of way.

While driving in the procession, you may see other cars on the road yielding or pulling over to let you all pass. This is a sign of respect, and it is safe to pass them. Also, one last thing to note is that you should have your headlights turned on while you are driving in the procession.

While attending services at funeral homes in Belvidere, IL can be a difficult experience, worrying about driving in the procession shouldn’t add to your stress. Just keep these things in mind and if you need more information, feel free to reach out to us anytime as we are happy to help .

The post Driving in a Funeral Procession: What You Need to Know appeared first on Blog | Rockford, IL Funeral Home & Cremation | Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD. .

Life Tribute Videos: Honoring Your Loved One

Mon, 23 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT

If you are planning a memorial service after your loved one’s cremation services in Rockford, IL , and want a unique and personalized way to honor them, consider a life tribute video. These are sometimes referred to as memorial videos and are a chance for you to let your loved one’s life and personality shine.

These videos are played during the memorial service and act as a keepsake for the family once the service is over. They typically include photo montages as well as background music tracks. Video clips can also be added. To help you get the most from this tribute, we are going to go over some ideas that will truly help capture your loved one’s life.

To get started, it helps to ask yourself some questions. Things like:

Asking questions like this can provide direction and focus on how the video should be. It will also help narrow down the choices when you are looking through all the photos.

Making it Personal

Once you have an idea of the direction of the video, it’s time to gather and create the content. Other than photos of memories, things you can include are:

If you are creating the video yourself, you will be able to find software that can help. While some of this software can be a little confusing at first to learn, it can be done. If you are not very technical, you may wish to ask another family member to help. You can also give the content to the funeral home and have them create the video for you. Many families opt for this as it’s the easiest option.

Having a video like this to play at your loved one’s memorial service is such a meaningful way to honor their life and show what they were all about. If you are making arrangements for cremation services in Rockford, IL, and would like to talk more about a video, contact us anytime as we are happy to answer all of your questions .

The post Life Tribute Videos: Honoring Your Loved One appeared first on Blog | Rockford, IL Funeral Home & Cremation | Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD. .

The Importance of Holding a Visitation

Mon, 16 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Visitations also called viewings and wakes, are an important part of the grieving, and healing, process . Many families may not know much about these services or the benefits they can provide. If this includes you, no worries; today we are going to cover why you may wish to add this service when making arrangements with funeral homes in Rockford, IL .

Visitation, Viewing, and Wake

First, let’s talk about what visitation is (and isn’t). Although the terms visitation, viewing, and wake are often used interchangeably, there are some differences.

A visitation is a time for friends and family to join together and offer love and support to one another. These are more casual events than the funeral services and are not as structured as the guests tend to come and go as they see fit. They typically take place the day before the funeral and are held in the afternoon or evening.

Typically, visitations are held at the funeral home. The home will not only have rooms to use but also help in arranging the event. Visitations can also be held at churches or even at a family member’s home.

A viewing is the same as a visitation except for the body of the deceased will be present in the room displayed in a casket. Although sometimes the body is present in a visitation, this is not the norm.

The difference with a wake is that a wake is normally a longer event where guests stay awake to mourn their loved ones. It is also usually a more religious affair with its roots being in the Catholic church.

Why Have a Visitation?

Holding a visitation before the funeral services can provide the family and friends with many benefits. These benefits can aid in the mourning process and can include:

Final Thoughts

Hosting a visitation can be very therapeutic for the family as well as for the guests. In such a difficult time, connecting with others and providing an environment to support one another is priceless. When you are talking to funeral homes in Rockford, IL., about arrangements and services, make sure to discuss your options for visitations.

The post The Importance of Holding a Visitation appeared first on Blog | Rockford, IL Funeral Home & Cremation | Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD. .

What Is a Cremation Garden?

Mon, 09 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT

If you are having to make arrangements for a loved one who has passed, or preplanning your own cremation services in Freeport, IL , you might consider a cremation garden for the final resting place for the remains. If you are not familiar with these spaces, let’s dive into them so that you can see what they have to offer.

What is a Cremation Garden?

A cremation garden is a designated garden that is set up, especially for those who have been cremated. You can find these gardens along with cemeteries or as standalone areas. These spaces typically include landscaping that consists of flowers and plants and will often have walking paths as well as benches and other sitting areas. You might also see sculptures, fountains, or other water features such as a brook.

How Are the Remains Kept?

Cremation gardens provide a number of ways to handle the remains of your loved one. Many provide ways to keep them in an urn, scatter or bury them. A few of the options can include:

People may choose cremation gardens for a variety of reasons. One is that it provides a designated space where family members can visit their loved ones anytime. It also offers a beautiful place to do so with gardens and sitting areas.

If families choose to scatter the ashes, an advantage is that there are no worries about breaking any rules or regulations as there might be when scattering the ashes elsewhere. Since this is a designated space, especially for this, families can feel secure and confident.

You can see that cremation gardens can be a wonderful option after your cremation services in Freeport, IL.

The post What Is a Cremation Garden? appeared first on Blog | Rockford, IL Funeral Home & Cremation | Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD. .

Helping You Feel Comfortable: What You Can Expect at a Funeral

Mon, 02 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT

If you have had a relative or close friend pass away, and are nervous about attending their funeral service, you are not alone. While this can be a difficult time due to the feelings of loss and sadness you are feeling, if you have never attended a funeral before, you might experience additional feelings of stress or anxiousness. Learning what you can expect at the service can go a long way in helping you feel comfortable. Whether the services are taking place in funeral homes in Freeport, IL , or another location, here is what to expect.

Arriving at the Service

When you first arrive at the location, there may be attendants that direct you where to park. If you are going to be driving in the funeral procession that travels to the graveside after the service, the attendants will typically park your car in the order it arrived in the procession line.

If you are not going to be driving in the procession, the attendant may park your car for you in another designated area or direct you so that you can park it yourself. Because of this, it is always a good idea to arrive at least 15 minutes early. This gives you time to park and find seating before the services.

Before the Service Begins

When you enter the room, you might be given a memorial program. This program is a printed pamphlet that outlines the events of the service. It may also have the deceased’s obituary as well as other information such as the list of pallbearers. You will take this program and find a seat.

A general rule of thumb when it comes to funerals is that the right side of the room is for family and relatives and the left side of the room is for friends, coworkers, etc. Also, never sit in the first few front rows on either side as those are reserved for immediate family.

The Service

The service begins with a procession down the center aisle. You will see the casket carried by the pallbearers and followed by the family. The casket will be carried and placed in the front of the room, and the family will take their seats. Once the family has all been seated, the services will continue.

While every service can have unique elements or be done in different ways, most follow the same format. This format includes:

At the end of the service, the information for the burial service may be announced. If it is not announced, the family wishes to keep it private. If you are not invited to the burial service, respect the family’s wishes and do not attend.

Although funeral homes in Freeport, IL. do everything possible to help the family and guests feel comfortable, attending a funeral for the first time can be daunting. Knowing what to expect before you go can ease some of the stress and let you focus more on honoring your loved one than feeling nervous about the service.

The post Helping You Feel Comfortable: What You Can Expect at a Funeral appeared first on Blog | Rockford, IL Funeral Home & Cremation | Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD. .

Unique Ash Ideas You Didn’t Know Were Possible

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

With cremations being more common, many people today are opting to hold on to the remains of their loved ones in more unique ways than a traditional urn. If you are looking for a new way to keep your loved one’s remains after their cremation services in Belvidere, IL , keep reading as we cover some of the most unusual.

Ash Infused Options

Many companies and private artists offer a wide range of items that actually infuse your loved one’s remains directly into the item. Some of these creations you can get include:

Unique Urns

If you would like to keep your loved one’s remains together in an urn yet still want something a little different, you could try one of the following items:

You can see that there are a variety of unusual and unique ways for you to keep your loved one close to you after their cremation services in Belvidere, IL. If you would like to talk more about these options or if you prefer a more traditional style urn, come by and visit with us anytime.

The post Unique Ash Ideas You Didn’t Know Were Possible appeared first on Blog | Rockford, IL Funeral Home & Cremation | Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD. .

A Short Guide to Casket Options

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

The use of caskets can be traced back thousands of years to ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. There, materials such as wood, paper, and cloth were used to make burial boxes. Over time, caskets evolved and in the United States, they started being manufactured in the 19th century. Today you can find caskets being offered by individual casket providers as well as funeral homes in Belvidere, IL .

Caskets have come a long way from their roots in the 19th century. Advancements in materials, as well as design, have created a market full of unique options. Knowing and understanding what these options are can help you find the perfect choice when selecting one for you or a loved one.

The first thing to look at is the material. Caskets today are made from wood steel and everything in between. Each material is unique and can offer various advantages and/or disadvantages. Here are some of the most popular materials:

While these are the most common types of materials, they are not all the materials you can find. When talking with your funeral home, ask about their options.

Other Elements

While caskets long ago might have been pretty simple, today there is a myriad of ways to embellish and personalize them. Just some of these options include:

With all of the options, you may feel overwhelmed when talking with funeral homes in Belvidere, IL. We understand as this can be a difficult decision. Let us help guide you so that you can feel confident you are making the right choice for your loved one.

The post A Short Guide to Casket Options appeared first on Blog | Rockford, IL Funeral Home & Cremation | Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD. .

Can I Have a Viewing Before a Cremation?

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

If you are having to make cremation services in Rockford, IL for your loved one, you may be asked if you would like to have additional services such as viewing. Many people are surprised by this question as viewings are mostly associated with traditional funerals. However, having a viewing with cremation is entirely possible, and quite common. If you are not sure what viewing is or how it works with the cremation process, don’t worry, we are going to cover everything you need to know.

What is a Viewing?

A viewing is a service that is held before the cremation takes place. It is a gathering of family and friends and tends to be more casual than a funeral or memorial service. This event is a come-and-go style affair meaning that guests arrive and leave as they wish. Additionally, there may be cookies and punch, or other light refreshments served.

During a viewing, the body of the deceased is in the room displayed in a casket with an open top. If guests feel comfortable, they can approach the body and say their final goodbyes. Guests can also take this time at the service to offer their condolences to the family.

Do I Have to Buy a Casket?

While you can certainly purchase a casket to be used at the viewing and also the cremation, you may not have to. A “rental casket” may be available. These are cremation containers that are placed in a hardwood casket “shell”. This gives the appearance of an actual hardwood casket but during cremation, only the inside container will be used, allowing the shell to be used again in the future.

Is the Body Embalmed?

If a viewing is selected with the cremation service, then the body of the deceased will be embalmed. This is to preserve it and have it presentable for display during the viewing. Additionally, services such as hair and make-up may be performed.

What Happens After the Viewing?

After the viewing, the body will be cremated as the family wishes. This may include a private gathering for the family for a final goodbye. Following the cremation, the remains will be returned to the family in a temporary urn or an urn that the family has purchased.

Things to Consider

While holding a viewing before a loved one’s cremation can be a healing and lovely event, it may not be the right choice for everyone. Some things to consider in helping you make this decision are:

If you have further questions about viewing or how it works with cremation services in Rockford, IL, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to help and welcome you to call or come by anytime.

The post Can I Have a Viewing Before a Cremation? appeared first on Blog | Rockford, IL Funeral Home & Cremation | Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD. .

Choosing a Funeral Home: 3 Characteristics to Look For

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Whether you are talking with funeral homes in Rockford, IL about preplanning your own services , or regarding immediate arrangements for your loved one, you want to select a reputable and trustworthy provider. With so many choices, you may not know which one is best. After all, this is most likely the first time seeking out a funeral home, so how do you even know what to look for? While there may be many funeral homes to choose from, they are not all the same. Here are some important factors to look for when making this choice.

1. Honest and Open About Pricing

When you are talking with a funeral home, they should be open and transparent about their pricing. If you are inquiring about pricing and they are dodging or redirecting the conversation, you may want to find another funeral home.

A reputable and honest provider will have no issues with providing you with the price information you are requesting. And, in case you didn’t know, this is actually required by law. The Federal Trade Commission’s Funeral Rule states that, when asked, the funeral home must do the following:

2. Holds a Good Reputation

One of the best ways to ensure you are working with a good provider is to simply look at their reputation. You can find a lot of information about their ethics and character by the way they have treated other clients in the past.

Do they have a lot of good reviews? Are they in good standing with the community? This information is easy to find by doing an online search. You can look at their website, social media channels such as Facebook, and other local review sites. This information can go a long way in making you feel comfortable in your choice.

3. Offers More Than Expected

While most providers offer the basic services, exceptional providers will go above and beyond. These additional services may include providing resources for grief support , creating and designing items such as tribute DVDs or memorial programs, assisting in writing the obituary, providing options for guest funeral favors, and more.

Final Thoughts

Although talking about arrangements with funeral homes in Rockford, IL is not an easy thing to do, dealing with the right provider will make a world of difference. Choosing a funeral home that is transparent about pricing, possess a good reputation, and shows they care about their clients by offering additional services and resources can truly make the experience much less stressful.

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