Organizing a funeral service in Montreal can raise many questions, especially when decisions must be made in the days following the death of a loved one. What happens during the first meeting with a family advisor? How is a funeral viewing prepared? Who handles the coordination on the day of the funeral? What support is available after the service?

From the first conversation with a family advisor through the days following the funeral, the team at the Aeterna complex is there to explain the process, coordinate the various service providers, and ensure that the deceased’s wishes are honored—all so that loved ones can navigate this time with peace of mind.

Here’s how a funeral service at the Aeterna Complex might unfold and how the team supports you before, during, and after the funeral.

 

Before the funeral: comprehensive support from the very first call

 

The initial contact with the Aeterna team

When someone contacts the Aeterna complex, a team member takes the time to listen and answer their questions, with no pressure or obligations. This initial conversation helps determine the person’s needs and, if they wish, leads to scheduling an appointment with a family advisor.

 

The first meeting with the family advisor

During the first meeting, the advisor will ask the family a number of questions to fully understand their expectations. For example, the advisor might ask:

• Who was the deceased?
• Had they expressed their final wishes?
• How does the family wish to honor them?
• Are there any beliefs, traditions, or rituals to be observed?

 

In some cases, the deceased had already made funeral arrangements in advance or had put their final wishes in writing, which will make things easier for their loved ones. If no arrangements have been made, the counselor will guide them through the various options available, moving at a pace that suits them.

The advisor’s role is to explain the next steps, ask the right questions, and guide the family in their decisions. During this meeting, which is both practical and emotional, the advisor will listen attentively and show empathy in order to adapt to the needs of the family and ensure that the deceased’s last wishes are honored.

 

What should you prepare before your first meeting with a funeral advisor? If the deceased had written a will or made funeral prearrangements, it may be helpful to have that information on hand. You can also start thinking about the type of ceremony you’d like, who will attend the service, and any traditions you’d like to observe.

 

A ceremony tailored to your values and traditions

The format of the funeral ceremony is shaped by the wishes of the deceased and the preferences of their loved ones. For example, some families prefer a traditional viewing with the deceased present, while others prefer a celebration of life, a non-religious ceremony, or a memorial service.

At the Aeterna complex, families can honor their loved ones in accordance with their values, culture, and traditions. The team has the expertise to facilitate ceremonies from a variety of faiths, including Buddhist, Sikh, Greek Orthodox, Catholic, and more.

 

Follow-ups before the funeral

Once the general outline of the ceremony has been established, the team will continue its work behind the scenes. The family advisor will follow up to answer any questions and ensure that the decisions made still align with the wishes of the loved ones. The various people involved may be contacted throughout the process to ensure that everyone is comfortable with the planned arrangements.

About a week before the viewing, a follow-up meeting is also scheduled with the family. This meeting provides an opportunity to check whether any new requests have arisen since the initial meeting and whether any details need to be adjusted.

 

Coordinating the various service providers

The Aeterna complex can recommend certain vendors and directly handle their coordination before and during the funeral. The team communicates with the various service providers (officiant, musician, caterer, and other vendors) to ensure that everyone understands their role and that everything is ready for the day of the ceremony.

 

How long should you plan for a funeral service? The length of a funeral service varies depending on the type of tribute chosen, family traditions, and the planned rituals. Therefore, there is no single duration that applies to all services. However, your family advisor will be able to give you an accurate estimate once the details of the service have been decided.

 

During the funeral: a team on hand, working discreetly

On the day of the funeral service, family members will be invited to arrive at least one hour before the guests so they can see the room set up according to their requests and ask any final questions, if needed.

Aeterna’s experienced team will ensure that everything is ready and will handle every detail and every vendor so that the family can focus on what matters most: commemorating their loved one.

 

The advisor's role during the funeral service

As guests arrive and the service begins, the advisor will remain available while respecting the family’s privacy.

The advisor will be present at the start of the service and will check in with the family about 3 or 4 times throughout the service to ensure that everything is proceeding as planned, always in a discreet and respectful manner.

 

After the funeral: emotional and administrative support

After the funeral service, the team at the Aeterna complex remains available to support the family in coordinating certain final arrangements, such as choosing a burial site.

The advisor can also refer loved ones to grief support resources if they feel the need. In this way, the family receives comprehensive support from start to finish.

 

Aeterna: A trusted team to support you

The team at the Aeterna complex offers comprehensive support and personalized funeral services in the Greater Montreal area.

Contact us to learn more about organizing a funeral in Montreal, prearrangements, or our other funeral services. Our team is here to answer your questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

 

FAQ (frequently asked questions)

 

How does a funeral ceremony unfold?

The sequence of events depends on the type of ceremony chosen, the deceased’s wishes, and the family’s preferences. A ceremony may include a viewing, moments of reflection, a celebration of life, a religious service, or a memorial service. The family advisor will guide the family in planning a funeral that reflects their loved one’s personality.

 

Can a funeral service be personalized?

Yes. A service can be tailored to the wishes of the deceased and to the values, beliefs, traditions, and wishes of their family. Personalization can include, among other things, the type of service, the music, remarks by loved ones, or rituals.

 

Can a ceremony be held before or after a cremation?

Yes. A farewell ceremony can be held as part of a cremation. The Aeterna complex has a private room where a celebration of life can be held on-site, either before or after the cremation.

 

Does the support continue after the funeral?

Yes. The team at the Aeterna complex remains available after the ceremony to support the family and refer them to grief support resources, if need