From Dying Dressed As Santa Claus To Dying In The Nude: People Now Have Unique Funeral Choices

Funerals have always been sombre events, since they are meant for expressing sadness for loss. But over time, they have transcended the somber notions of death and been turned into vibrant celebrations of life.

These gatherings thus became poignant expressions of remembrance, love, and the enduring impact individuals leave on the world.

According to SunLife¡¯s Cost of Dying Report 2023, half of all funeral services were described as a celebration of life in 2023.

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Modern and casual funerals in fashion

According to the report, over 80% of funeral directors noted an increase in 'celebration of life' ceremonies, while 70% observed a decline in traditional religious funerals.

Modern perspectives are reshaping funeral traditions. Shifts include lighthearted speeches, allowing children's presence, and about 25% opting for non-traditional dress codes, encouraging colorful attire.

Personal preferences manifest in customised coffins, chosen music, and requests for charitable donations.

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Additionally, eco-friendly funerals gain traction, reflecting a growing awareness of the environmental impact of the final farewell.

Certain individuals wished for their farewell to echo their passion for science fiction and fantasy, imagining funeral directors adorned as iconic characters such as Darth Vader from Star Wars or Gandalf from The Lord of the Rings.

Meanwhile, others embraced a Rocky Horror-themed ceremony, encouraging attendees to participate in suspenders and stilettos.

Dying like Father Christmas or in the nude: Eccentric funeral choices

But some funeral ideas were quite eccentric.

Some individuals opted for attendees to wear high-visibility clothing, pyjamas, or even nothing at all¡ªillustrating a spectrum of preferences and beliefs.

Even the dead wanted to die uniquely! Choices ranged from being laid to rest in Santa Claus attire to a nude display to incorporating lighthearted activities such as conga dancing into the ceremony, as shared by Mark Screeton, CEO at Sun Life.

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Moreover, there was a trend of paying homage to professions, seen in requests for coffins lined with hay for farmers and creative fruit and vegetable arrangements for greengrocers, departing from the customary floral tributes.

The variety of unconventional preferences showcased the evolving and personalised nature of contemporary funeral arrangements.

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