Most burials involve a Committal Service that follows or is a continuation of an earlier memorial service held in a church or funeral home. It includes a gathering of family and friends at the graveside, columbarium niche, scattering or mausoleum to pay tribute before the decedent is laid to rest. Graveside services differ from Committal services in that they are gatherings and tributes at the final burial or disposition site that are not preceded by any religious or other memorial ceremonies.
Either type of service can range from the most simple observance of a loved one's passing to a celebration of life with music, balloon releases or other creative elements arranged in advance.