Funeral On Web-Cam

[Ken4155]

Graham, who i have known for over 50 years, died recently and, but for the virus restrictions, i would most likely have attended his funeral today. One of his daughters posted a link and a password to a website, enabling his many friends to watch the funeral service live. I almost didn't watch it as i thought it would serve only to magnify the fact i couldn't be there to pay my respects in person. However, i am glad i did because, in a way, i was there. Posting this to re-assure anyone else who has the chance to view a funeral service in this way, and is dubious about doing so, that it is the next best thing to actually being there.

[jno]

who filmed it? One of those attending, or do the undertakers provide it as a service?

[Barmaid]

I attended a funeral in this way in the spring. It was still moving. Glad I had the opportunity to mark my old friend's passing.

I dressed as I would have done had I attended. I booked myself off work. Only difference is at the end I had a glass of our favourite tipple on hand. He'd have loved it.

[Mamyalynne]

I think it's a wonderful idea and gives people a chance to feel they have been able to pay tribute and say farewell.

[Ken4155]

To be totally honest, Jno, i haven't a clue. The camera angle never shifted, so it was obviously fixed to the wall at the back of the chapel. I would assume it is something that many cemeteries have done to enable more people to 'attend' than is physically allowed during the lockdown restrictions.

[retrocop]

My mate died just before last Christmas and we were invited to the local funeral by his son. We were spending Christmas and New Year in Malta so his son gave us the video link to wath on our Ipad in the hotel. It never reached us. I have seen his BIL recently and he has promised to burn off a hard copy for us.Not sure I want to see it now as time passes.

[Thisoldbird]

My son is in a hospice very near end of life. I would like to think we could attend this way but, it may well be we won't be told when it happens.

We were only told just a week ago of his condition.

[Mamyalynne]

That's an incredibly sad situation to be in Thisoldbird. x

[marval]

Sorry to hear this Thisoldbird.

[Ken4155]

Graham wasn't a friend in the truest sense of the word. As i said, he was someone i have known for over 50 years. I've been a neighbour of his for a couple of years, i pass his house almost every time i walk the dog, stopping for a quick chat with him if the weather is ok and he is sat out. When i smoked, i used to buy my contraband off him (bit of a Del-Boy, old Graham) and at one time it looked as if we may even become 'related', through my son and his daughter 'holding hands'.
What made it all the more poignant is that his brother is one of Burnley's main undertakers and it was he who oversaw everything. He has done the same for most of my deceased loved ones and i have always found him to be the consummate professional. He tried desperately to hold it together, today. However, right at the end of the service, a lady hugged him (don't tell the covid police) and his mask slipped as he began to weep for his brother. It was at that point i also felt a lump in my throat and a slight sting in the corner of my eyes.

[anneasquith]

Good to know Ken. ... sad news tob .

[jno]

that sounds sensible, Ken, a very useful service considering how many funerals are sparsely attended this year.

[Fairlight]

I watched my friend Ken`s funeral by video link. Apart from the sound quality which was a bit dodgy at times, it was nice to be able to be a part of it.

[canasta]

We’ve ‘been ‘ to two of these from crematorium and they have been inspirational, Just sorry that more haven’t been this way.

[barry1010]

I think that is a wonderful service for those who can’t attend funerals for any reason, especially those who live in a different country. It is becoming more common, thankfully

[Electrochem]

Many crematoria have had this facility for some time now. It is usually a webcast provided by the crematorium. Some people use Funeral Videographers, who do an excellent job.