Funeral Homes and Personalized Funerals
December 16, 2019
Whether you’re hosting or preplanning for a funeral at a funeral home in Dixon, IL , you’ve most likely spent some time brainstorming how you can make the service as unique and specials as the deceased was. You wouldn’t be alone in this, as personalized funerals are the way of the future. Want to learn more? Here are some fascinating facts about personalized funerals:
- Funerals are a celebration of life – Funerals are no longer sad and gloomy events. People want to celebrate their lost loved ones in special ways, remembering them for their unique qualities and happy memories.
- Most people have never been to a personalized funeral – Even though most people want a personalized funeral, 53% of people have never been to one. Think about what was the most unique or special about your lost loved one, and try and incorporate that into the funeral.
- Most Families don’t want a traditional funeral – According to a recent study, 71% of families do not want a traditional funeral as they see them as gloomy or dark. Most families want something unique that reflects the special qualities of their lost loved one.
- People want a party – In another recent study, 500 participants were asked to name something they really want at a funeral. The top 5 answers were music, family, people, beer and flowers. When put all together, these 5 things equal a celebration.
- Cemeteries are overcrowded – About 2.7 million Americans die every year. That’s the entire population of Chicago. With so many deaths, it’s no wonder cemeteries are too crowded. That’s why many people are opting for non-traditional ways of putting their lost loved ones to rest.
- Religion is on its way out – According to the National Funeral Directors Association, the percentage of people that think religion is an important part of a funeral has gone down by more than 10%. More people are placing personalization over religion.
- Webcasting services – The internet is also allowing families to be a part of funeral services even if they can’t be there in person. Funeral webcasting is becoming very popular all across the US, and is only getting cheaper which makes it more accessible for everyone.
- Cremation is in – The most recent numbers project that by 2035 75% of Americans will choose cremation over burial because of personalization, price and the environment.
- Memorial videos – Memorial videos put modern technology to good use. They allow families to make personalized tributes for the deceased for people to enjoy at the funeral and beyond.
- Traditional burials are out – Traditional burials are now thought of as wasteful and bad for the environment. For example, in one year in America, burial puts enough embalming fluid into the ground to fill an Olympic swimming pool.
- Digital obituaries – Since most obituaries are now placed on memorial websites rather than printed in traditional newspapers, they are becoming more and more important, thorough, and personalized.
Want to learn more about personalized funerals or Dixon, IL funeral homes? Just contact Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation by visiting 702 1st Ave Sterling, IL 61081, or calling (815) 626-1131.

Grief has a way of weaving itself into everyday life, often arriving quietly and lingering longer than expected. For families searching for guidance from funeral homes Morrison, IL , questions often extend beyond arrangements and into how to cope once daily routines resume. While grief looks different for everyone, simple daily practices can provide structure, comfort, and moments of calm during an otherwise overwhelming time. These small, intentional habits can help create emotional steadiness as healing begins. At Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation, we have walked alongside families long after services conclude, and we understand that grief does not follow a timeline. Our conversations often focus on gentle, realistic ways to care for emotional well-being. Coping does not mean moving on. Instead, it means learning how to carry loss with compassion for yourself. Begin Each Day with Gentle Intention Mornings can feel especially heavy when grief is present. Starting the day with intention helps set an emotional tone that feels manageable. This might mean taking a few quiet moments before the day begins to breathe deeply, reflect, or simply acknowledge how you are feeling. Naming emotions can be powerful. Saying, even silently, “Today may be hard, and that is okay,” creates space for self-compassion. Over time, this practice helps reduce pressure to feel a certain way and allows emotions to come and go naturally. Create Space for Reflection Grief often brings waves of memories. Rather than pushing them away, setting aside time for reflection can be healing. Journaling, writing letters, or spending time with meaningful keepsakes can help process emotions in a healthy way. Reflection does not need to be lengthy or structured. Even a few minutes each day can help organize thoughts and release emotional tension. This consistent outlet often brings clarity and emotional balance. Maintain Simple Routines Routine provides stability during emotional uncertainty. Simple daily tasks such as preparing meals, going for a short walk, or keeping a regular sleep schedule can help ground the mind and body. These routines are not about productivity. Instead, they remind us that life continues at a pace we can engage gently. Over time, routine offers reassurance and a sense of normalcy without diminishing the significance of loss. Practice Mindful Movement Physical movement supports emotional health. Gentle activities like stretching, walking, or light exercise encourage the body to release stress. Movement also provides a mental break, allowing emotions to settle naturally. Mindful movement focuses on presence rather than performance. Paying attention to breath and sensation helps anchor the mind in the present moment, offering brief relief from emotional heaviness. Allow Moments of Connection Grief can feel isolating, even when surrounded by others. Intentionally creating moments of connection can help counter that sense of loneliness. This might include talking with a trusted friend, sharing memories with family, or participating in a support group. Connection does not require constant conversation. Simply being with someone who listens without judgment can be profoundly comforting. These moments remind us that support exists even when words are hard to find. Give Yourself Permission to Rest Emotional exhaustion is a common part of grief. Rest is not a luxury but a necessity. Allowing yourself time to rest, whether through quiet moments, short naps, or reduced commitments, supports healing . Rest also involves setting boundaries. Saying no when energy is low protects emotional health and prevents burnout during an already challenging season. Find Comfort in Familiar Practices Familiar routines, traditions, or spiritual practices often bring comfort during grief. Whether it is music, reading, prayer, or time outdoors, these practices provide emotional grounding. Consistency matters more than complexity. Returning to what feels familiar helps create a sense of safety and continuity when everything else feels uncertain. Coping with grief is a deeply personal journey shaped by daily choices and compassionate support. Families who turn to funeral homes Morrison, IL often seek reassurance that healing can happen gradually and authentically. At Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation, we believe ongoing care matters just as much as initial guidance. We invite you to explore our grief support resources to find thoughtful tools and insights that can help you navigate each day with patience, understanding, and renewed emotional strength.









