The role of family and friends in funeral planning

Published on May 2, 2025

Organizing a funeral is one of the most important things a family can do to honor a loved one who has passed away. In these emotional moments, the presence, solidarity and collaboration of loved ones take on their full meaning. Together, family and friends can create a ceremony that is faithful to the memory of the deceased, respectful of his or her values, beliefs and memory.

At Complexe funéraire Aeterna, we understand how essential the involvement of loved ones is in giving meaning to memorial rituals. Discover how our team accompanies families with compassion and expertise through this eventful stage in their lives.

 

When loved ones join forces to create a heartfelt tribute

The death of a loved one inevitably causes great upheaval in the lives of all those who loved them. But from this ordeal, a surge of solidarity can emerge. It's not uncommon for family members, close friends, colleagues and even neighbors to join forces to pay tribute to the departed.

Although not everyone has the same resources or the same proximity to the deceased, this spirit of collaboration can take many forms. For example, one person may be responsible for choosing the music, while another takes charge of the food and decorations. Someone else may be in charge of gathering texts and testimonials, while the immediate family decides on the rituals and symbolic gestures that will structure the ceremony. Every detail, no matter how simple, helps to reflect the unique personality of the deceased and to celebrate his or her life in an authentic way.

At Complexe funéraire Aeterna, families are invited to participate actively in this process. If they wish, loved ones can speak, read a text or share a testimonial during the final farewell. This involvement can help them get through the mourning process more serenely, by allowing them to say goodbye in their own way.

 

Personal support every step of the way

Organizing a funeral is more than just the day of the ceremony. In fact, it's a journey that can seem complex, fraught with decisions and responsibilities. That's why the Aeterna Funeral Complex offers comprehensive, caring and professional support every step of the way. In this way, loved ones can focus on the essentials: personalizing the ceremony to make this final farewell unique.   

 

Before the ceremony

Our family advisors support loved ones in all the logistical, administrative and emotional steps they need to take. They take the time to listen, understand and guide families towards the choices that are right for them.

 

During the ceremony

Our staff keep a discreet eye on the smooth running of the event, so that everyone can take part in the funeral rituals in a calm and peaceful atmosphere. The human and respectful approach of the Complexe Aeterna team allows family and loved ones to focus on the present moment.  

 

After the ceremony

Follow-up is offered to the family, with resources to support the initial stages of grief. The team remains available to answer questions and support those who need it. At Aeterna, listening, compassion and dignity are not just values: they are concrete commitments to each family.

 

A ceremony venue worthy of your loved one

The setting for a funeral ceremony greatly influences the experience for the family and loved ones of the deceased. Complexe Aeterna offers a modern, refined and welcoming space where life can be celebrated with distinction.

Located at the intersection of Highways 40 and des Laurentides, the complex is easily accessible, and its facilities adapt to the varied needs of families - whether for an intimate ceremony or a larger gathering. Every detail has been designed to ensure that families feel confident, surrounded and supported.

 

A collective approach, a tailor-made tribute

When family and loved ones come together to organize the funeral of a loved one, the result goes far beyond a simple event: it's a collective tribute and an act of shared love. By giving everyone a voice, respecting the loved one's wishes and creating a ceremony that feels like home, the pain of mourning is eased through the power of commemoration.

 

Plan a funeral in the image of your loved one

Would you like to organize a funeral or celebration of life worthy of the person you loved so much? Because every life deserves to be honoured with respect and dignity, Complexe Aeterna is committed to helping you transform this difficult moment into a precious and meaningful memory.

Contact us to schedule a meeting with one of our family advisors, visit our Montreal complex or learn more about our funeral services.

 

FAQ (frequently asked questions)

 

How can families personalize a funeral at Complexe Aeterna?

Family members can choose the music, texts, symbolic gestures, rituals and even participate in the ceremony with readings or testimonials. The Complexe Aeterna team is there to guide them every step of the way.

 

Do you offer funeral services adapted to all religions?

We organize funerals for Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Muslims, non-religious and more, respecting the traditions of each community. We are also open to adapting our services to any other culture or tradition.  

 

Is it possible to plan a funeral in advance?

Yes, it is. We offer a funeral pre-arrangement service that lets you plan the details of the ceremony, the mode of disposal and the resting place while you're still alive, with complete peace of mind.

 

Do you offer grief support after the funeral?

We offer a grief support service and remain available, even after the ceremony, to support the families we accompany.

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