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A funeral service typically takes place with the body of the departed present, whereas a memorial service takes place without the actual body present.
A funeral service can refer to a traditional graveside burial service, or it can refer to a funeral service conducted in a chapel when a cremation is later performed. A funeral service most often is conducted within a week of the death occurring.
A memorial service generally takes place some time after the death and disposition has occurred. It is usually a service specifically to memorialise the life of the deceased. If a cremation has been performed, often a memorial service is conducted to inter or scatter the cremated remains, at the same time as the celebration of the deceased’s life.
How you decide to memorialise your loved one should be an entirely personal choice, and observing the wishes of the deceased. We often hear the quote that “funerals are for the living”, which of course they are. But too often family are swayed into a funeral service that can become overwhelming, driven by our social concerns with what other people will think.
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Peter Erceg
Peter Erceg is the Founder and Owner of eziFunerals — Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority. With more than 40 years of experience in government and public health, Peter has become one of the country’s leading voices on funeral transparency, consumer rights, and ethical funeral practices. Through eziFunerals, Peter has built a national platform that empowers Australian families to make informed end-of-life decisions — free from pressure, commissions, and confusion. His goal is simple: "to help every Australian plan smarter, save money, and choose funeral services with confidence." 🕊 eziFunerals was founded by Peter in 2011, as an independent funeral comparison and planning platform that allows consumers to: • Compare local funeral directors and transparent quotes, • Understand real funeral costs across Australia, and • Connect with trusted, independent funeral homes that uphold the Fair Funeral Promise. As Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority, eziFunerals is recognised by media, consumers, and funeral professionals for its leadership in price transparency and consumer protection. “We believe every family deserves a fair, dignified, and affordable farewell — without hidden fees or sales pressure.” 📘 Peter is the author of What Kind of Funeral: A Self-Help Guide to Planning a Meaningful Funeral, a practical guide that has helped thousands of Australians understand their options and avoid unnecessary costs. He regularly contributes articles and commentary on: • Funeral cost transparency and industry reform, • Prepaid funerals and consumer protection, • Emerging trends in eco-friendly and digital memorials, and • The role of AI and technology in end-of-life planning. 🎙 Peter and eziFunerals have been featured in major Australian media outlets including ABC News. His insights continue to shape the national conversation on funeral costs, consumer rights, and ethical practices in the funeral industry. ⚖️ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Peter Erceg are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of eziFunerals or its members. The information provided on this site is general in nature and should not be taken as personal, legal, or financial advice. Consumers are encouraged to conduct their own research and compare funeral services that best meet their needs and circumstances.