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Posted on December 5, 2025 by jhcadm

Choosing What’s Right for Your Family: Public vs. Private Funeral Viewings

At James H. Cole Home for Funerals, we understand all the personal decisions that need to be made when planning a loved one’s funeral. An important decision that some need to make is whether to hold a public or private viewing. This choice is an important step in honoring your loved one, as it allows family, friends, and the community to come together and say goodbye in a meaningful way. Both options provide opportunities for reflection, support, and closure, and we are here to guide you through the differences to ensure you make the decision that best fits your family’s needs.


What Is a Public Viewing?

A public viewing is open to all individuals wishing to pay their respects. Typically held at a funeral home, chapel, or community space, these viewings are announced in advance through obituaries and social channels to notify family, friends, coworkers, and even community acquaintances

Benefits of a Public Viewing:

  • Increased Support: Offers an opportunity for extended family, friends, and the community to grieve together.
  • Honoring Life in Community: Allows others to express their condolences and share memories of your loved one, highlighting the impact they had on those around them.
  • Flexibility: Provides a structured yet open setting for people to come and go during designated hours.

Considerations:

  • Public viewings can be emotionally overwhelming due to the number of attendees.
  • Families may feel pressure to engage constantly during an already difficult time.


What Is a Private Viewing?

A private viewing is reserved for close family members and select individuals, offering an intimate and personal way to say goodbye. Attendance is invitation-only, and the location can vary from the funeral home to a more private family space.

Benefits of a Private Viewing:

  • Privacy: Provides a quiet, intimate setting for the immediate family and close friends to mourn without distractions.
  • Emotional Space: Allows those closest to the deceased to grieve without the external pressures of accommodating a large crowd.
  • Personalization: You can incorporate meaningful moments or rituals unique to your family.

Considerations:

  • It limits the opportunity for extended family, friends, or community members to participate in the mourning process.
  • Some families may feel conflicted about not including others who care about the loved one.

How to Decide What’s Right for Your Family

Choosing between a public and private viewing depends on the wishes of your loved one, your family dynamics, and your emotional needs. Here are a few questions to guide the decision:

  1. What were your loved one’s wishes?
    If their preferences were specified in advance, follow their guidance to honor their memory.
  2. Would the viewing be a source of comfort or stress?
    Consider whether having a large group would bring solace or if a smaller, private gathering would feel more manageable.
  3. How connected was your loved one to the community?
    If they had a significant community presence, a public viewing may offer others the chance to honor them. A private viewing may be more appropriate for someone who preferred close relationships over broad connections.
  4. Are there cultural or religious traditions to follow?
    Some faiths and cultures have specific practices that may influence the style of the viewing. James H. Cole Home offers a variety of specialized services designed to honor your family’s unique traditions and needs. Learn more about how we can support your wishes here: https://www.jameshcole.com/specialized-services/


James H. Cole Is Here to Assist

At James H. Cole Home for Funerals, we understand the importance of choosing the right way to honor your loved one. Whether you opt for a public or private viewing, our caring staff is here to guide and support you every step of the way. From personalized arrangements to creating a space of comfort and peace, we’re dedicated to helping you celebrate the life of your loved one in a way that reflects your family’s values.

Contact us today to discuss your needs and learn more about how we can assist in planning a meaningful service.

Posted in General Topics