Funeral Homes Rely On Virtual Tools Amid COVID-19 Restrictions

Federal health guidelines and state restrictions limiting the size of gatherings are impacting the way we're saying goodbye to our loved ones.

Handshakes and hugs are commonplace in the funeral service business. But social distancing requirements are flipping that model. Most arrangements are made by phone, email, or using other online applications.  When families do come to the building, their visits are staggered.

“The community has been patient and understanding, but it's a challenge and a difficult time in someone's life,” says James Haire, a manager with Hayworth-Miller Funeral Homes and Crematory in Winston-Salem.

Many funeral homes have also stopped public visitations. Instead, they're offering smaller graveside services of ten people or less.

“Family members across the country that typically travel in, they may not do that now and they may not be afforded that opportunity," says Haire. “So we are very sensitive to that and that's why we are trying to honor these individuals by offering a memorial service at a later time, whether that's at our chapel or at a church.”

Haire says some families are also opting to stream graveside services on Facebook Live or post them to other social media sites, so more people have a chance to say their goodbyes.

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