Personalization & Memorialization

We, here at the Charles F. Dewhirst Family Funeral Homes, encourage families to personalize the service for their loved ones to the extent that they are comfortable doing so and in a manner that is a reflection of the life that has been lived. These expressions can and should be as unique as the individual being remembered. You can accomplish this through tangible items such as personal photographs or through intangible expressions such as the sharing of favorite memories.

Families often tell us, “We want to remember him the way he was.” In this comment is the beginning of a personalized funeral or cremation ceremony. By remembering the qualities that made our loved one who they were or the unique way they could make us laugh, we commemorate their life. By sharing these memories during a service, we personalize the ceremony. You may choose to do this through a eulogy or music, or by creating a memory setting complete with a collage of photos and special mementos. Creating a setting that represents an individual’s family, work, hobbies, civic involvement or special interest can be very therapeutic during a difficult time. Don’t discount anything as being “too much of a bother.” Allow your imagination to guide you. Your family, friends, and clergy can help. Many unique options exist today to personalize a loved one’s funeral services.

We have memory boards for displaying pictures of your loved one and sound equipment to play any special or favorite music of your loved one. We can also transfer your family photos into a video presentation of your loved one ’s family memories, complete with background music. Many families bring in personal items such as fishing poles, favorite hats, letters from Grandchildren, quilts knitted by Grandma, veteran's uniform or medals, any anything else that has special meaning.

We also have a wide variety of personalized insert panels to customize the casket interior with a theme that fits the lifestyle of your loved one. We have embroidered farm panels, flowers, pets, outdoor and nature themes, military & service organization insignia, plus many more. In addition, we can take a favorite picture of your loved one with a background of your choosing and have a special "photo-panel" made up overnight.

Our experienced funeral directors and pre-need counselors can offer additional guidance and suggestions to help personalize your loved one’s funeral ceremony.