What is a Home Funeral?
A home funeral is a personal, family-centered celebration planned and carried out by family and friends. It's not a new idea. Until the late 1800s, "home funerals" were simply called funerals. When a loved one died, families washed and dressed them, combed their hair and laid them out. While neighbors built the casket or wound the shroud, others dug the grave, made a meal, or sat with the body to say their goodbyes.
Home funerals are legal in Montana. Families can take care of everything that is necessary on their own without hiring a funeral director. Some families may prefer to hire a funeral director to provide specific services. These usually include filling out paperwork and transportation, but hands-on care is still an option for families if that is desired. There is no right or wrong way to do things. Caring for the body of a loved one is safe and possible. Home funerals are a beautiful, meaningful, cost-effective option to help us say goodbye.
End-of Life-Doulas are not Funeral Directors and we do not plan funerals. Rather, we serve as guides and support for families by providing resources and information to those who wish to create their own personalized funerals.
NEDA After-Death Care Educator
