The death of a loved one is one of the most difficult times. A funeral initiates the grieving process.  It acknowledges that a life has been lived.  The funeral allows family and friends to remember and honor their loved one in a special way.  The visitation serves as a central gathering place to give emotional and physical support to one another.  It helps survivors to better cope with their grief and enables them to move forward with their lives.  It confirms the reality and finality of death and provides closure for the bereaved.