Funeral Service Options

This section contains useful information about what to do when death occurs, funeral etiquette and frequently asked questions.

A funeral is all about honoring and paying respect to the deceased before being laid in their final resting place. Our chapel can handle small or large funeral services and the funeral directors will plan it all with your input. If there is no Rabbi to officiate, Neshama can provide one. There will be decisions such as graveside or chapel, who will be eulogizing, pallbearers and some other details. The rest will be arranged by the funeral director.

Whatever your needs, we will help you along with respect and professionalism that comes from some of our staff being in the business for over 35 years. Contact us to discuss your needs.

When Death Occurs

No matter if a death is sudden, or if it something that was a long time coming, the loss of a loved one makes us feel emotional and overwhelmed.  No amount of preparation can fully prepare you for the loss of a loved one.  When you are in a heightened emotional state, even the most basic decisions can seem staggering.  

Burial Service

Neshama JFS prides itself on only offering burial packages that conform to Jewish law. Traditionally, a shomer will remain with the body from removal until burial. Before the service, the Chevra Kadisha, Jewish Burial Society will perform a taharah, dress the body in tachrichim and place it in a casket. The funeral service can be held in our chapel or graveside. 

Eulogies and Obituaries

The first time we see a eulogy in the Torah is when Abraham eulogized his wife Sarah, and since then it has a been a custom of the Jews. The purpose of the eulogy is two-fold. Following in the steps of Abraham, the eulogy is to praise the deceased by mentioning his good deeds and worthy qualities. The second purpose is to express grief and sense of loss experienced by the mourners and the entire Jewish community.

Funeral Etiquette

A Jewish funeral is a simple but emotionally meaningful goodbye to the deceased. The service does not attempt to comfort the mourners. The Sages teach us it is pure mockery to try to comfort the mourners while their beloved lies before their eyes. This is why shiva starts after the deceased is buried and laid to rest. The funeral service is there only to honor the deceased, a tribute to him in form of a eulogy and recitation of Psalms.

FAQ's

Frequently asked questions, answered. If you have a question not listed here, please contact us.