(718) 469-6666

Celebration of Life/Living Funerals

Table of contents

    Whether you’re taking the initiative to organize a living funeral for yourself or seeking help to create the perfect celebration of life in Brooklyn for a loved one, you can find all the solutions you need at Harmony Funeral Home. Proudly serving the Flatbush, East Flatbush and Canarsie communities, including the Haitian Creole-speaking families, you’ll appreciate the attention to detail and helpful guidance at this Brooklyn funeral parlor. Plan ahead or ask for immediate assistance by calling today.

    What Is a Living Funeral?

    Unlike a traditional funeral, a celebration of life in Brooklyn takes place before death. So a living funeral gives you the rare opportunity to celebrate your life or the life of someone you love while you’re still around to be part of it. It gives you the chance to hear the words, feel the love and see the impact you’ve had on others.

    If you face a serious illness, want to plan for the future or simply desire to bring your loved ones together for a heartfelt goodbye, a celebration of life in a Brooklyn funeral home allows you to create something beautiful and unforgettable through powerful moments like:

    • Listening to stories, memories and kind words shared in your presence
    • Connecting with loved ones through laughter, reflection and support
    • Witnessing the impact your life has had on others
    • Sharing your thoughts, gratitude or farewell messages

    One of the best New York funeral homes, Harmony Funeral Home has experience in both living funerals and celebrations of life. Their facilities offer ideal spaces for all kinds of funeral services, from religious services to memorials and non-religious funerals.

    How Do I Plan a Celebration of Life for a Loved One?

    You don’t have to follow a specific format or location for a celebration of life. You may prefer something more intimate or more joyful, whether it’s in your home, at a local park or in a space that your funeral parlor in Brooklyn offers. Options include:

    • Gardens
    • Banquet halls
    • Intimate quiet indoor spaces
    • Meaningful public spaces
    • Chapel or event space

    If your loved one enjoyed music, laughter or nature, use those elements. If they were spiritual or reserved, keep the tone peaceful and thoughtful. And of course, you can record the entire event. Add details that feel meaningful to you and your family. You may include:

    • Readings from a favorite book, poem or spiritual text
    • Eulogies or personal tributes
    • A slideshow or video tribute
    • Favorite foods, drinks or traditions
    • A symbolic gesture like a candle lighting or balloon release

    Are Religious and Cultural Customs Part of a Celebration of Life in Brooklyn?

    A celebration of life may include religious or cultural elements. While these events are often more casual and non-traditional than funerals, they’re also highly personal. To reflect your loved one’s faith or spiritual beliefs, you may choose to include:

    • Prayers or blessings led by a clergy member
    • Readings from sacred texts, such as the Bible, Quran, Torah or Bhagavad Gita
    • Religious music, hymns or chants
    • Ceremonial rituals or symbols
    • A religious figure offering a message of hope, remembrance or spiritual reflection

    A celebration of life may include traditions passed down through generations. Whether your background is Haitian-CreoleJewishChristianMuslim, Caribbean or African American, you can bring those traditions into the service. Some families include:

    • Cultural dress or traditional garments
    • Specific music or dance
    • Ancestral prayers, spoken tributes or food offerings
    • Symbolic gestures like incense, drumming or libation pouring
    • Multilingual services or readings in your native language

    What Support Do I Get for a Celebration of Life in Brooklyn?

    At Harmony Funeral Home in Brooklyn, you find modern facilities and compassionate professionals to help you design a one-of-a-kind tribute, whether you envision a spiritual ceremony, a joyful memorial or something entirely your own. Support includes:

    • Designing a program around your loved one’s interests or beliefs
    • Suggesting personal touches

    For complete assistance in all details of your celebration of life or living funeral, contact Harmony Funeral Home, recognized by the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) for outstanding community service and innovative funeral practices.

    Harmony Funeral Home
    2200 Clarendon Rd.,
    Brooklyn, NY 11226
    (718) 469-6666

    Updated on Oct 14, 2025 by Harmony Funeral Home