Obituaries give visitation, funeral and memorial details

Funeral services that include a viewing or wake are usually held within a few days of a death, but a funeral or memorial service can sometimes take place much later. Some families choose to hold a visitation before the service, while others may prefer a more low-key or private family service. A memorial service can take place at a funeral home, chapel or another location that was meaningful to the loved one. Preferences vary, and an obituary lets friends and family know where to go and when. The online obituary also allows you to sign up for reminders about services to provide assurance that you don't miss an important memorial event.