There is growing popularity for direct cremations as they are more cost effective than a traditional funeral.  Sometimes, a funeral is small for family and close friends, but the deceased person may have a wide circle of friends and colleagues who wish to celebrate their life.  A memorial service for a deceased person is a ceremony held to honour and remember the life of someone who has passed away. Unlike a traditional funeral, where the body is usually present, a memorial service typically takes place without the body, after it has been buried, cremated, or otherwise laid to rest.