Rabenhorst Funeral Home Obituaries (2024)

FAQs

Why is the obituary read at funeral? ›

Reading the obituary aloud, allows family, friends, and community members to collectively remember and celebrate the life that was lived. It serves as a way to share and preserve the memories and legacy of the individual.

Unlike an obituary, a eulogy is usually a spoken remembrance in honor of the deceased. It can cover an array of topics but usually includes a personal story, often lighthearted, that helps portray their life. Eulogists often write about the person's attributes, memories or common times that were shared together.

As you are giving your speech, if you begin to feel tears swell up, look up at the audience. This quick action can serve as a distraction for your mind and help hold the tears back. You can also scan the audience to see a friendly face which may also help in making you feel more relaxed and able to hold back the tears.

The eulogy is a deeply personal reflection of someone's life. Family or friends usually give this speech. However, clergy or the funeral celebrant may read it for the family. As this is a very emotional time, some people may not feel comfortable delivering the eulogy to the congregation.

If you're unsure how to end your eulogy, finish with a simple goodbye, or a thank you for the memories you shared. You might choose to use traditional phrases like 'rest in peace' or 'sleep well'. Or you can use something less formal, like a greeting or joke you used to share with the person who has died.

The eulogy itself is typically given by a close family member, friend or a minister. There's no reason why two people cannot deliver the eulogy, or in some cases, it may be more appropriate to open the eulogies to all attendees.

A well-written obituary can help an family heal. It can offer more details of a person's life that others may not have known.

Why might someone not have an obituary. There are several reasons why a person might not have an obituary: Obituaries are not required by law , so the deceased's family might have chosen to forego publishing one. Publishing an obituary can be expensive , and the funds may be unavailable.

A eulogy is a speech given at a funeral in commemoration of someone's life.

Is it disrespectful not to have an obituary? ›

Posting an obituary is not a legal requirement and is a sentimental action. Families don't have to publish one if they don't want it or do not have the funds to do so. While you do not have to share a death note or obituary, you must file a death certificate with your state's office.