Atheists, as you know, do not believe in life after death or the existence of deities. Hence, funeral services for atheists are rather complicated things. If the deceased was an atheist and did not make final preparations in advance, and that person was a close relative of yours (e.g., spouse, parent, sibling, etc.), here is the kind of funeral you should assemble.

A Viewing of the Body in a Non-Religious Location

Funeral homes often offer viewings of the deceased within the funeral home. For a person who died as an atheist, this is ideal, since it is a non-religious location. The viewing of the body and the paying of one's respects to the deceased can be held in the funeral home. Eulogies may either be said here, or at the grave site.

No Prayers or Religious Services

No prayers should be said over the body, nor should any religious services be performed. This shows respect for the deceased's decision to be an atheist. While most of your other family members may find this very difficult to follow (unless they are also atheists), you should do your best to follow this. You know it is what the deceased would have wanted.

A Celebration of the Life of the Deceased

The closest thing to any sort of service is providing a celebration of the life of the deceased. Most atheists would find that acceptable. This would involve gathering together lots of photos to create a display, and showing any awards or honors granted to the deceased during his or her life. Anything for which the deceased would have been proud of is what you need a picture of for the display. You could also do a slide film of the deceased's life and accomplishments.

Eulogies and Sentiments

Instead of a religious service or prayer said at the grave site, most atheists prefer sentiments or eulogies. People can say goodbye, and then circle the coffin or casket as they go. After that, the coffin or casket is lowered into the ground and buried.

Depending on the person, you may or may not want to place a headstone, since that is typically a religious connection to burial and an afterlife. It depends on how hardcore atheist the deceased was. Hopefully, the deceased had some discussions in regards to death and resting places prior to death. That would help you decide whether or not to place a grave marker. For more information, contact establishments like Shepherd Funeral Home.

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