The Basics
Many people don't encounter funeral homes or funeral directors until they have to plan a funeral following the death of a loved one. Whether you have helped plan a funeral or memorial service for a loved one or not, here is some helpful background information to help you with your story:
Terminology
| Instead of... |
Say... |
Why? |
| Ashes, Remains |
Cremated remains |
Cremated remains are bone fragments that have been pulverized into a grey powder resembling sand and are not actually ashes. |
| Passed away, lost, etc. |
Died |
Using phrases such as “We lost Grandma” can create confusion, especially for young children. |
| Coffin |
Casket |
A casket and coffin are two burial containers differentiated by shape. A coffin has six sides, while a casket only has four sides. |
| Committed suicide |
Died by suicide |
In conversation, we give cause of death (i.e. death by heart attack, car accident, etc.). “Committed” implies a criminal act associated with the deceased. |
Definitions
Click here for a comprehensive glossary of funeral service terms.