Grief and Joys of the Holiday Season

Virtual Funeral Professionals Peer Support Meeting in December 

WHEELING, IL— Between family obligations, work commitments, and winter weather, the holiday season can herald a uniquely stressful experience. Take some time for yourself next week.  Join the virtual December Funeral Professionals Peer Support meeting on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 8pm EST / 7pm CST / 5pm PST and support our own experiences as funeral professionals even as we serve grieving families.  

Amidst the gatherings and celebrations are long nights, many obligations, and the unique grief this month can bring. That’s why we need to take a moment to offer ourselves and our colleagues the same grace that we give our grieving families. We can acknowledge that we don’t have all the answers, especially when we’re facing our own personal and professional stressors. 

On December 16, Kelly Manion facilitates the monthly peer support meeting for us all to take some time to unwind with people who “get it.” With over 25 years dedicated to purpose-driven work in grief and over a decade of experience in the funeral service profession, Kelly understands the unique hardships and joys of this time of year. By providing space to talk about our grief, Kelly will help us understand the unique ways we all grieve and how to maintain our care for ourselves and our colleagues in the midst of it. 

For reasons both cheerful and challenging, December can be packed full of obligations. If you cannot attend this peer support meeting, or are seeking support outside of this time, Funeral Professionals Peer Support’s Warmline is open 24/7 for calls and texts. Connect with someone who understands what you are going through: 613-917-8057 (call or text). 

The unique grief and joy of the holidays can be emotionally and physically draining, so remember to take special care in this special time of year. Connect with your funeral professional peers on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 8pm EST / 7pm CST / 5pm PST via Zoom link at cremationassociation.org/peersupport. No registration is required, simply follow the link to join. (Please note that this meeting is hosted in an area that observes the time change at the end of Daylight Saving and “fell back” to Standard Time. Double-check your time zone before attending.) 

About Funeral Professionals Peer Support 

Funeral Professionals Peer Support Group is committed to providing support, healing, education and knowledge to funeral professionals. They promote wholeness and wellness by uniting funeral sector professionals through a Canada-wide network of regional organizations offering support, information and resources within their community.  

About CANA 

Founded in 1913, the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) is an international organization of over 3,700 members, composed of funeral homes, cemeteries, crematories, industry suppliers, and consultants. CANA members believe that cremation is preparation for memorialization. 

At Archway Funeral Service in Derbyshire, we understand that every funeral is an important moment of remembrance, reflection, and love. As the seasons change, many families find that holding a funeral in autumn carries a special kind of peace and meaning. With the beauty of the falling leaves and the crisp, cool air, autumn can provide a poignant backdrop for saying goodbye to a loved one.

The Comfort of Autumn Settings

Autumn is a season known for its warmth of colour and quiet beauty. The golden trees, gentle sunsets, and stillness of nature can bring comfort to families gathering to pay their respects. Whether you are planning a service in Ripley, Alfreton, or across Derbyshire, the natural surroundings at this time of year often create a serene and reflective atmosphere.

Our funeral directors in Derbyshire can help you choose locations and arrangements that complement the season—whether that’s a chapel service with autumnal floral tributes or a woodland burial surrounded by seasonal beauty.

Practical Considerations for Autumn Funerals

While autumn can be beautiful, it’s also important to think about practicalities:

• Weather Preparedness – With cooler temperatures and a higher chance of rain, we recommend guests bring coats and umbrellas. Our team at Archway Funeral Service in Ripley can also provide advice on ensuring venues are comfortable and welcoming.

• Seasonal Flowers – Many families choose rich autumnal arrangements, such as chrysanthemums, dahlias, and roses in warm tones. These flowers reflect the season and bring a sense of harmony to the service.

• Light and Atmosphere – As evenings draw in earlier, indoor services often benefit from candles and soft lighting, creating a sense of warmth and peace.

Creating a Personal Autumn Tribute

Every life is unique, and our experienced funeral directors in Derbyshire are here to help families create a meaningful service that reflects their loved one. For an autumn funeral, some families choose:

• A memory table decorated with autumn leaves and photographs.

• Warm refreshments, such as tea, coffee, or even spiced drinks, at the wake.

• Poems or readings that reflect the themes of change, rest, and reflection.

Support from Archway Funeral Service

Losing a loved one is never easy, no matter the season. At Archway Funeral Service, our compassionate funeral directors in Ripley and throughout Derbyshire are here to guide you through every step, ensuring that your loved one’s farewell is handled with dignity, care, and respect.

Whether you need advice on funeral planning, arranging a pre-paid funeral plan, or simply someone to talk to, our team is always ready to support you.

Contact Archway Funeral Service

If you are arranging a funeral in Ripley, Alfreton, or anywhere across Derbyshire, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to provide guidance, compassion, and the professional service you need during this difficult time.

📍 Archway Funeral Service – Serving families across Derbyshire

If you are looking to arrange a Derbyshire funeral in Ripley, Heanor, Belper, Crich or the surrounding areas of Derbyshire, please do not hesitate to contact Archway Funeral Service.

Get Ready, Cemeteries: ‘Tis the Season for Necrotourists

One might assume that most cemeterians eventually develop a love/hate relationship with visitors. For example, family and friends are always welcome to stop by a loved one’s resting place — as long as they’re not driving through the grass or breaking the decoration rules. Likewise, you probably don’t mind when folks from the community walk the grounds for exercise, drive through to appreciate the beauty of nature, or learn more about the people of the past. You might even be OK with the #Gravetok creators who film themselves cleaning an old gravestone or eating a pie they made from a recipe engraved on a marker.

But how do you feel about people whose only purpose for visiting a cemetery is to revel in a place of death and sorrow, create creepy horror reels, or to pose for selfies at the graves of babies? While this type of questionable motivation or behavior can happen anytime of the year, the weeks leading up to Halloween are prime time for some of the sketchiest situations a cemeterian might encounter.

It’s called necrotourism

“Necrotourism” is a recently-coined term used to describe a niche form of tourism focused on visiting sites related to death. The concept itself isn’t new though, as people have naturally been drawn to sites of tragedy and death throughout history. These sites are most commonly cemeteries, but also include memorials, museums, and other places of historical or cultural significance where the deceased are remembered. 

All in all, necrotourism isn’t a bad thing, as many tourists are visiting these spots to appreciate the art, architecture, and history found in these locations or to simply honor those who died there. Visits to Ground Zero, Auschwitz, and Chernobyl, for example, can be incredibly educational, spiritual, and life-changing experiences.

Many modern cemeteries were created to be places for people to gather — for recreation and relaxation as well as mourning and remembrance. Today, Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn and Hollywood Forever in Los Angeles are just as well-known for their overflowing calendar of events as they are for their famous residents.

The dark side

Naturally, as the number of visitors to a cemetery or memorial site grows (along with the sales of t-shirts and guided tours), so do debates on the morality and ethics of profiting from tragedy. Some worry that encouraging necrotourism can lead to exploitation of suffering, disrespect to the dead and their families, and the possibility that people will forget the true purpose of the site.

These consequences are known as the “dark side” of necrotourism — when sites meant for respectful memorialization attract visitors with more nefarious intentions. Sadly, and perhaps, expectedly, these visitors and the creepy and/or criminal behavior spike in October, especially around Halloween — and especially at cemeteries.

Hateful and obscene

Over the last several decades, more reports of stolen or disturbed grave decorations, toppled vases, graffiti, trespassing, and other petty to serious vandalism have been reported in October than in other times of the year. In 2022, for example, criminals chose Halloween night to paint “hateful and obscene graffiti” (including some Satanic language) on graves and columbariums in a Catholic cemetery in New York. The cleanup and restoration cost thousands of dollars, in addition to the human cost in grief and outrage.

Other activities can be even more depraved and dishonorable. In 2007, someone dug up the grave and stole the remains of a woman who died 1821 from a New Hampshire cemetery around Halloween. The hole they dug was “a perfectly rectangular hole, 5 1/2 feet deep, with evenly piled mounds of dirt left on either side of the empty grave,” leading authorities to suspect that the actions were motivated by witchcraft or satanic ritual, as “some believe that if a skull is stolen on Halloween night, it will grant powers to a person who holds it.”

A similar situation occurred in Queens, New York on October 31, 2016, when vandals broke into a mausoleum, “wrecked the place,” leaving bones and clothing scattered about, and left with the skull of a man and the entire skeleton of a woman, both of whom died in 1928. 

While these examples are somewhat extreme, today’s social media culture has certainly compounded the potential for Halloween mischief — and the recording of such activities. Even though trespassing on cemetery grounds is a classic adolescent Halloween activity (call it old-school necrotourism), the resulting videos or images of the actions for TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram can lead to much bigger issues.

Practical preparations

There are some things cemeterians can do to proactively prevent or prepare for Halloween hijinks:

• Remind families (especially in October) about removing fragile decorations overnight, and offer to store or safeguard seasonal items.
• Collaborate on lighting, camera coverage, visitor policies for high-risk nights, and volunteer watch rotations.
• Encourage family members to photograph damage and file police reports immediately; quick reporting increases chances of prosecution and insurance recovery.
• Help families with repair referrals, memorial restoration fundraising, or compassionate communications. 
• Counsel communities about the social-media angle (don’t film or post desecration) and coordinate with police/parks departments about rapid takedown of offending posts if possible.

Good luck, and Happy October!

Autumn in the UK is a season marked by vibrant colours, crisp air, and a noticeable change in the atmosphere as the days grow shorter. It is a time of transition, often evoking feelings of nostalgia and introspection. In this reflective season, the solemnity of a funeral can seem especially poignant, as the natural world mirrors the themes of endings and farewells.

The Significance of Autumn in the Context of Funerals

Autumn is often seen as a time of letting go, as trees shed their leaves and the landscape transforms into a palette of oranges, reds, and browns. This natural progression from life to decay can be a comforting metaphor during times of grief, reminding us of the cyclical nature of life and death. In many ways, the season’s inherent beauty and melancholy create a fitting backdrop for funerals, where loved ones gather to say goodbye and reflect on the life that has passed.

Traditional Funeral Practices in the UK

Funerals in the UK typically follow a set of traditions that have evolved over centuries. A funeral service usually involves a ceremony held in a religious or secular venue, followed by a burial or cremation. The service is an opportunity for family and friends to come together, share memories, and support one another in their grief.

In Autumn, these services can take on an even more profound meaning. The cool, crisp air and the sight of leaves falling can evoke a sense of peace and acceptance, offering a stark yet beautiful contrast to the warmth of memories shared within the service.

The Role of Nature in Autumn Funerals

The natural surroundings during autumn can play a significant role in the funeral experience. Many people choose to incorporate elements of the season into the service, such as using autumnal flowers like chrysanthemums, marigolds, and heather, which are traditionally associated with remembrance. The use of seasonal foliage and the rich colours of autumn can bring a sense of comfort and continuity to the ceremony.

Outdoor funerals or burial services in natural settings are also more common during autumn, with the environment providing a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Woodland burials, where the deceased is laid to rest in a natural setting with minimal environmental impact, have become increasingly popular in the UK. The autumn landscape, with its quiet beauty and sense of finality, offers a peaceful resting place and a lasting connection to nature.

The Impact of Weather on Funeral Arrangements

While autumn is a time of natural beauty, it also brings unpredictable weather, which can affect funeral arrangements. Rain and wind are common, and it’s important for families to plan accordingly, ensuring that guests are prepared for the elements. Venues often have provisions for inclement weather, but outdoor services may require additional considerations, such as providing umbrellas, heating, or even shelter for guests.

Despite these challenges, the weather can add a certain authenticity and depth to the experience. The sound of rain during a service or the sight of mist over a graveyard can enhance the reflective mood, offering a poignant reminder of the transient nature of life.

Memorials and Remembrance During Autumn

Autumn is also a time for remembrance events in the UK, such as Remembrance Sunday in November, which honours those who have died in military service. This national act of remembrance resonates with personal losses, offering a collective moment to reflect on the broader themes of sacrifice and loss.

For families holding funerals in the autumn, this season of remembrance can provide additional opportunities to honour the deceased. Many choose to hold memorial services or plant trees in memory of their loved ones, using the symbolism of the changing season to represent the enduring nature of memory and love.

Conclusion: Autumn as a Time for Healing

Autumn funerals in the UK encapsulate a time of both mourning and reflection, where the natural world offers its own form of solace. The season’s beauty and symbolism provide a comforting framework for saying goodbye, reminding us that while life inevitably changes, the memories and impact of those we love endure.

In this season of endings, there is also space for quiet healing. As the year winds down, autumn offers a time to gather close, to remember, and to find peace in the cycle of life and death. Whether through the simple act of scattering leaves on a grave or the more formal observance of a memorial service, autumn in the UK remains a deeply resonant time for honouring those we have lost.

Hilton Funeral Supply Prepares for the 2025 Convention Season 

As convention season approaches for funeral professionals across the United States, Hilton  Funeral Supply is gearing up to attend several key events throughout 2025. We are excited to  connect with funeral professionals at the following conventions this spring: 

• IFDA Convention – Illinois, April 7 – 9 

• OFDA Convention and Exhibition – Ohio, April 29-May 1 

• MFDA Convention & Exposition – Michigan, May 12-14 

• IFDA Convention & Trade Show – Indiana, May 19-22 

Later in the year, we look forward to participating in the NFDA International Convention & Expo this coming October, where we will continue our commitment to serving funeral professionals  nationwide. 

At Hilton Funeral Supply, we pride ourselves on building strong relationships with our  customers. While we are dedicated to serving funeral professionals across the country— whether in person or online—there is something uniquely valuable about face-to-face connections. These conventions provide a meaningful opportunity to listen, learn, and  understand how we can better support the needs of funeral directors and their businesses. 

To those we will be seeing at these events, we look forward to engaging with you, discussing  your needs, and exploring how we can best serve you. Our priority remains steadfast—to  deliver exceptional products and services to support the important work you do. 

For more information about Hilton Funeral Supply and our upcoming convention schedule,  please consider signing up for our newsletter or visiting us at hiltonfuneralsupply.com.

April 29, 2024

In the past few weeks, I’ve heard from high school friends that two of our classmates had died. This is not uncommon by itself, but the surprise came as I learned that one of our classmates had died two years ago, and another some three months ago. Yet, not one person we knew in common had known of their passing before now, so none of us who grew up together had any idea that we’d lost two “of our own.” That meant sorrow upon sorrow at the delay in learning of their passing.

Just as we are sending area youth off to their first days of school (and college) this month, it’s always an exciting time to welcome new seasons of our arts organizations here. They each spend hours of volunteer time contemplating their offerings for the coming year. For the first time this year, the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra will be holding a three-event Free Summer Series.

Because of the record heat in July and travel schedules for musicians and their families, the Summer Series actually begins

. That concert will present the

on the Green at Century Square in College Station. The event will be free although the center itself charges about $5.00 for an hour or two of time, either around the green or over in the garage.

The Percussion Ensemble is led by Sarah Burke, Section Principal, and it will be an unforgettable concert in what will arguably be perfect weather; surely in two weeks it will be cooler and in the evening it will be lovely. Plus, Hopdoddy’s, Blaze Pizza, Sugar’s Candy and other restaurants are within three minutes’ walking distance to supply patrons with dinner to go along with the evening’s entertainment.

The

will debut on Sunday evening,

th

, and the

will perform on Sunday,

. All three summer concerts begin at 6pm. Bring a lawn chair and the entire family and treat them to beautiful, free entertainment by an organization that contains your talented friends, neighbors, and colleagues!

The regular season of the 40

th

anniversary year will start on

th

in Rudder Theatre on the TAMU Campus, featuring

playing Beethoven’s Emperor piano concerto No. 5, the overture to Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5. Mr. Garcia is first place winner of the Cleveland International Piano Competition as well as an international medalist.

On

th

, three lovely ladies present Illuminations and Glory! In Rudder Theatre. Soprano Bronwen Forbay and Mezzo Soprano Galina Ivannikova join with Soprano Bethany Clearfield for Bach’s Wedding Cantata, Benjamin Britten’s Les Illuminations, and Vivaldi’s Gloria in D Major. The program also incorporates two exceptional groups, the Brazos Valley Chorale and the Texas A&M Century Singers. The evening is special, of course, as it is sponsored by the Clearfield family, longtime anchors of the BV Symphony Society.

Rounding out the Fall will be the Holiday Pops concert on

th

, at Christ Church in College Station, which features James Faith, Organist, the Christ Church Sanctuary Choir and Canticle Bell Ringers as well as the College Station Varsity Women’s Choir on various future selections for brass, organ, and choir.

In the

, two dynamic guitarists, Isaac Bustos and Alejandro Montiel, will perform Carmen Suites No. 1 and 2, the Three Cornered Hat Suite No. 1 by Manuel de Falla and Concierto Madrigal for Two Guitars by Joaquin Rodrigo. Bustos and Montiel are Grammy-nominated artists who bring their gifts to Rudder Theatre on

st

, 2024.

In time for Valentine’s Day celebrations, the BVSO has an evening with the centerpiece of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition front and center in Rudder Auditorium on

th

. Adding to the fun will be Debussy’s Clair de lune, Ravel’s Le Tombeau de Couperin, and Villa Lobos’ Bachianas brasileiras No. 2.

BVSO Musical Director and Conductor, Dr. Marcelo Bussiki

On

, Brahms’ Hungarian Dances (Symphony No. 4) will be featured programming and feature BVSO’s principal trombone, Brian Logan, for this dynamic evening in Rudder Theatre.

Then, perhaps the season highlight has been set for

, Music of the Knights! Featuring the music of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Paul McCartney, and Sir Elton John, there’s a better than even chance that every audience member will be able to “name that tune” in five notes or less. It promises to be a magnificent evening of memories that will (hopefully) fill Rudder Auditorium!

Season tickets for all concerts are available for a very affordable $337 or a three-classical concert series for $262; the Holiday Pops are available at $40 each so it’s convenient to support the music in whatever configuration is comfortable for your budget. Of course, the caliber and quality of this outstanding BVSO has not endured and sustained for 40 years without the specific generosity and donation of community members, fellow artists, and local philanthropists, who’ve invested love, sweat, and tears into sustaining this precious artistic crown jewel in our area. Several concerts in the season are specifically underwritten as well.

It’s very easy to take for granted that we have a symphony here in the Texas A&M Community, and yet, it is a more challenging and important accomplishment that we still have one, as even the larger nationally ranked symphony groups have hit the wall financially across the country in trying budgetary times.

Therefore, now more than ever, it is important for us to show our support with our presence at the concerts as well as making the symphony your beneficiary when making special gifts in love and honor or in memory of a loved one. Their love of music will live on through the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra. For more information, or better yet, to join the Brazos Valley Symphony Society, visit their website at

won’t you?