“Funeral” can mean several different things. Here are the main types of services families choose in Melbourne and Brevard County, what each involves and how they affect cost. MelbourneFuneralServices.com is an information site; these services are provided by licensed funeral homes.
Traditional funeral
A visitation or viewing, then a funeral service with the body present, usually followed by burial and a short committal service at the cemetery. The service can be held at the funeral home chapel, a church or another venue. Embalming is common when there is a public viewing. This is generally the most expensive option because it includes the most staff time, facilities and merchandise.
Funeral followed by cremation
The same visitation and service as a traditional funeral, but cremation takes place afterward instead of burial. Some funeral homes offer a rental casket for the service.
Memorial service
A service without the body present, usually after cremation or burial has already taken place. Because there is no deadline, families can schedule it when relatives can travel. It can be held anywhere. Planning a memorial after cremation.
Graveside service
A service held only at the cemetery, sometimes after a private family viewing. It is usually shorter and less expensive than a full funeral. Military honors are often performed at the graveside.
Celebration of life
A less formal gathering focused on stories, music and the person’s interests, often held at a home, park, restaurant or club. It can take place with or without the body or cremated remains present.
Direct cremation
Cremation soon after death without a viewing or ceremony beforehand. It is usually the least expensive option, and families often hold a memorial later. Direct cremation explained.
Immediate (direct) burial
Burial shortly after death with no viewing or visitation. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, funeral homes list immediate burial as a package price on their General Price List.
| Service type | Body present? | Relative cost |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional funeral with burial | Yes | Highest |
| Funeral followed by cremation | Yes | High |
| Graveside service | Yes | Moderate |
| Memorial service or celebration of life | No | Varies with venue |
| Immediate burial | No service | Lower, plus cemetery costs |
| Direct cremation | No service | Lowest |
Related: Funeral costs · Burial · Cremation · Cost planner