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What Is a “deParty”?
A “departy,” also known as a living funeral, pre-funeral, living memorial, exit party or living wake, is a memorial celebration held for someone before they die. A common refrain at […]
A “departy,” also known as a living funeral, pre-funeral, living memorial, exit party or living wake, is a memorial celebration held for someone before they die. A common refrain at traditional funerals and related gatherings is the wish that the person who died could have seen all those loved ones together and heard their tributes — a departy is just that.
A departy gives friends and family members the opportunity to share stories, express their feelings, honor the life of, and say goodbye to a person who is generally expected to die within the span of weeks or months, whether due to terminal illness or old age. They are becoming an increasingly popular choice for families who want to honor the memory of their loved one without the solemnity and sadness associated with traditional funerals.
The service does not require any specific religious beliefs or rituals to be effective, though it certainly can include them..
The basics of “departies” or living funeral services
There are no set rules for how or where a departy or living funeral should occur. It’s common to share stories about the honoree, bring photographs or mementos, listen to their favorite music, indulge in favorite dishes, or even visit their burial site. As no two individuals are alike, the range of a departy can vary wildly — the aim is to create an experience that celebrates the life of a loved one in a meaningful and memorable way.
Sources
“What is a living wake and how to plan one?” Bare. https://bare.com.au/blog/what-is-a-living-wake-how-to-plan-living-funeral
