A wake or visitation gives the people who loved someone a time to come together, see them one last time and begin to say goodbye. Since 1909, our family has helped families in Corona and across Queens hold these gatherings with care. Call any hour, day or night: (718) 424-2000.
Wake, viewing or visitation: what’s the difference?
Families use these words in different ways, and that’s fine. A viewing is time set aside to see your loved one, with the casket open or closed. A visitation is a set time when friends and family come and go to pay their respects. A wake has deep roots in many traditions, often with prayers and the whole community gathering. We’ll help you decide what fits your family, your faith and your loved one.
Why families hold a visitation
- Friends, neighbors and coworkers have a chance to show they care
- Family traveling from out of town have time to arrive and say goodbye
- Grief is easier to carry when it’s shared
- It often comes before a funeral service and burial, or before cremation
A visitation before cremation
Choosing cremation doesn’t mean giving up a wake. Your loved one can be present for the visitation, with cremation afterwards.
How we help
- Call us any time. We’ll start arrangements at whatever pace your family needs.
- We handle the details. Preparing your loved one, setting up the room, and coordinating with your church, florist and cemetery.
- Your family gathers. Our staff are there throughout, ready to help in any way.
Questions families ask
Except in certain special cases, embalming isn’t required by law. It’s often recommended for an open-casket viewing, and we’ll explain why and let you decide.
Yes. The visitation comes first, and cremation follows.
Yes. We can live-stream the service.
We’ll ask about their background, faith and community, explain what’s possible, and help you choose what feels right.
Please call us at (718) 424-2000, any hour, day or night – we are here to answer your questions.
Learn more our Traditional Funeral Services or Burial & Cemetery Arrangements.
