Grief is "intense emotional suffering" caused by death, loss, disaster, or misfortune. Grief is awesome in its power to touch the way we view the world and ourselves. Grief will take as long as it needs to take, depending on many variables such as: the cause of death, age of the deceased, closeness or relationship to the deceased, and whether the death was sudden and unexpected.

Read as much as you can about grief. You will find your thoughts and feelings connected to loss are necessary and normal.

Lean into your pain. As tears well up in your eyes, let them come. Since others may want to stop your tears, find a place where you will feel more comfortable letting this happen.

Talk about your loved one.Share your feelings with others.Have patience with yourself.Be tolerant of your physical and emotional limits. Every person's grief is unique.

Follow up: Phone calls, home visits, customized grief literature. Lending Library: Books, magazines, videos Annual Tree of Remembrance Memorial Service: Honoring loved ones. Aging Parent/Caregiver Service Referral FRONTLINE quarterly bereavement newsletter (Professionals) Children's Coloring Book: "What Made Tommy Bear's Heart Feel Better."

When talking to young children about death, answer their questions honestly. If a child is denied sufficient information they may create their own explanations. Factual information will help to increase trust and reduce fear. Tell the child it is OK to cry, to feel sad or even angry and allow the child to see you or other adults cry.

Be aware of the child's behavior as they sometimes act out their feelings instead of talking about them. And allow children to participate in the visitation and funeral service but never force a child to participate. Last of all, be patient. Mourning takes time.

Traditional Funeral/Memorial Services

Graveside Services

Cremation Alternatives