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A Legacy of Compassion and Care: Harris Funeral Home
Harris Funeral Home, located at 267 N. Michigan Avenue, Shelby, MI, 49455, has been a pillar of comfort and support for the community for generations. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this esteemed funeral home has earned a reputation for providing exceptional service, compassion, and care during life's most difficult moments.
A History of Trust and Tradition
Established with a vision to serve families with dignity and respect, Harris Funeral Home has built a legacy of trust and tradition. The funeral home's experienced staff is dedicated to honoring the memories of loved ones, while providing guidance and support to those who are grieving. From traditional funeral services to personalized celebrations of life, Harris Funeral Home is committed to helping families create meaningful tributes that reflect the unique spirit of their loved one.
Personalized Funeral Services
No two individuals are alike, and neither should their funeral services be. At Harris Funeral Home, the staff takes great care in understanding the unique needs and desires of each family. From selecting a fitting casket or urn to choosing music, flowers, and other elements that reflect the personality of the deceased, every detail is carefully considered to ensure a personalized and meaningful experience. Whether you prefer a traditional funeral, cremation service, or something more contemporary, Harris Funeral Home's experienced team will work closely with you to create a service that honors your loved one's memory.
Cremation Options
For those who choose cremation, Harris Funeral Home offers a range of options to suit individual preferences. From direct cremation to memorial services with an urn present, the funeral home's staff will guide you through the process with sensitivity and compassion. Additionally, they can assist with scattering ceremonies, burials at sea, or other special requests that hold significance for you and your family.
Pre-Planning and Advanced Planning
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Facing the reality of our own mortality can be daunting, but taking control of our final arrangements can bring peace of mind and relief to ourselves and our loved ones. Harris Funeral Home encourages individuals to consider pre-planning their funeral services, allowing them to make informed decisions about their final wishes while sparing their family from difficult choices during a time of grief. The funeral home's experienced staff will guide you through the pre-planning process, ensuring that your wishes are respected and your family is protected from unnecessary burden.
Community Involvement and Support
Harris Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the Shelby community and is committed to supporting local organizations and initiatives. The funeral home regularly partners with charities, hospices, and other groups to provide resources and education on end-of-life care, bereavement support, and related topics. By engaging with the community in meaningful ways, Harris Funeral Home demonstrates its dedication to serving families beyond the scope of traditional funeral services.
Grief Support and Resources
Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, but it doesn't have to be navigated alone. Harris Funeral Home offers a range of grief support resources, including counseling services, support groups, and online materials. The funeral home's staff understands that grief is a unique and ongoing process, and they are committed to providing compassionate support every step of the way.
A Commitment to Excellence
Harris Funeral Home's commitment to excellence is reflected in every aspect of its operations. From its immaculately maintained facilities to its highly trained staff, every detail is carefully considered to ensure that families receive exceptional service during their time of need. The funeral home's dedication to excellence has earned it a reputation as one of the premier funeral homes in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an obituary?
An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and funeral or memorial services.
Why are obituaries important?
Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and can be a meaningful way to celebrate the life of the deceased.
Who typically writes an obituary?
In most cases, the obituary is written by the family of the deceased, often with the assistance of a funeral home or obituary writer. The writer will gather information from the family and create a concise and respectful tribute to the deceased.
What information should be included in an obituary?
A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about funeral or memorial services, charitable donations, or other relevant details.
How long should an obituary be?
The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's preferences. Typically, it ranges from 100 to 500 words. Longer obituaries may be published online or in local newspapers, while shorter versions may appear in national publications.
Can I include photos or other multimedia in an obituary?
Yes, many online obituary platforms and some print publications allow you to include photos, videos, or audio clips to enhance the tribute. This can be a meaningful way to showcase the person's personality and life story.
How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?
The submission process varies depending on the publication or platform. You can usually find guidelines on their website or by contacting their customer service department directly. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment for publication fees.
How much does it cost to publish an obituary?
The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication, word count, and any additional features such as photos or online tributes. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars for print publication, while online platforms may offer free or low-cost options.
Can I write my own obituary?
Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to ensure their life story is told accurately and authentically. This can be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and legacy.
What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?
A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and achievements.
Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?
Absolutely! An obituary should reflect the personality and spirit of the deceased. Including humorous stories or personal anecdotes can help celebrate their life and make the tribute more engaging and relatable.
How do I handle sensitive or private information in an obituary?
If there are sensitive or private aspects of the person's life that you prefer not to disclose publicly, it's best to omit them from the obituary. Focus on sharing positive and uplifting stories that honor their memory without causing unnecessary distress to loved ones.
Can I include charitable donation information in an obituary?
Yes! Many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers as a way to continue the deceased person's legacy and support a cause they cared about.
How long after a person's passing should an obituary be published?
The timing of publishing an obituary varies depending on cultural traditions and personal preferences. Typically, it's published within a few days to a week after the person's passing, but it can be delayed if necessary.
Can I edit or update an obituary after it's been published?
This depends on the publication or platform. Some may allow minor corrections or updates, while others may not permit changes once it's been published. Be sure to review carefully before submitting your final draft.
What if I need help writing an obituary?
If you're struggling to write an obituary or need guidance on what to include, consider consulting with a funeral home director, obituary writer, or bereavement counselor for support and resources.
Can I republish an obituary at a later date?
Yes! You may want to republish an obituary on special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries of the person's passing as a way to continue honoring their memory.
How do I preserve an online obituary over time?
Some online platforms offer permanent archiving options for obituaries. You can also save a copy of the text and photos for your personal records or share them with family members.
What is the purpose of an online guestbook or condolence message?
An online guestbook allows friends and family to leave messages of condolence, share memories, and offer support during a difficult time. These messages can be a comforting way for loved ones to feel connected and supported.
Can I create an online memorial page separate from an obituary?
Yes! Online memorial pages can be created on social media platforms, memorial websites, or through funeral homes' online tributes. These pages can serve as a lasting tribute to the deceased person's life and legacy.
How do I ensure accuracy when writing an obituary?
To ensure accuracy, verify facts with multiple sources whenever possible. Double-check dates, names, and spellings before submitting your final draft.
What if I'm unsure about what information to include in an obituary?
If you're unsure about what details to share or how much information is too much, consider consulting with close family members or friends who knew the deceased well. They can provide valuable insights and guidance during this process.
Can I use social media to share an obituary?
Absolutely! Social media platforms can be used to share links to online obituaries or publish brief announcements about a person's passing. This can help reach a wider audience quickly and efficiently.
Are there any specific cultural or religious considerations when writing an obituary?
Yes! Different cultures and religions have unique customs and traditions surrounding death announcements. Be mindful of these differences when writing an obituary to ensure sensitivity and respect for the deceased person's heritage.