What type of funeral service is often held without the body present?

A memorial service is characterized by the absence of the deceased's body, focusing instead on celebrating their life and providing an opportunity for family and friends to remember and honor them. This type of service allows for personal reflections, sharing of memories, and can be more flexible in terms of location and format, as it is not bound by the presence of the physical remains.

In contrast, a traditional service typically includes the body and may involve a viewing or visitation period, where attendees may pay their respects. A graveside service is conducted at the burial site and includes the body in the process of interment. A burial service specifically refers to the act of laying the deceased to rest in their final resting place, which also necessitates the presence of the body. Thus, the key distinguishing feature of a memorial service is its focus on remembrance without the physical presence of the deceased.