The primary purpose of embalming is sanitation and temporary preservation, providing families the time to hold a viewing and say goodbye. This practice, as we know it today, has deep roots in history. It became more widely adopted during the Civil War, allowing families of fallen soldiers to bring their loved one’s home for funerals. For those families, having the opportunity to hold a service and say their farewells was incredibly meaningful.
Embalming also helps ease the visual impact of death, creating a peaceful and comforting memory for families.
For traditional services, which might include burial or cremation as the final disposition, embalming is commonly chosen to allow for a viewing.
While it’s not required, many families see the value in embalming as part of their grieving process.
And here’s a bit of trivia: Do you know who the first U.S. president to be embalmed was? President Abraham Lincoln! After his death, he was embalmed and transported by train for public viewings, becoming the first president to lie in state.
All family’s choices are unique, and we’re here to honor and support them with compassion and care.
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