“Can we see them again?”
Sometimes the question comes almost immediately after someone passes away.
Other times, a family member spends several days unsure whether they want to.
Perhaps you want another moment with them.
Perhaps you’re frightened about what that moment might feel like.
Perhaps one person in your family wants a viewing and another doesn’t.
There is no single correct response.
Spending time with your loved one before the funeral is a deeply personal choice.
Why Do Some Families Choose a Viewing?
A funeral can be busy.
There are people arriving.
Things happening around you.
A service beginning at a particular time.
A private viewing can feel very different.
There may be no one else there except the people you choose.
You don’t need to say anything.
You don’t need to behave in a particular way.
For some families, it provides one more quiet moment together.
“I’m Worried About Seeing Them”
Tell us.
You don’t need to hide that concern.
One of the most helpful things a funeral director can do is explain what you can expect before you make your decision.
Fitzgerald’s Funerals provides for the dignified care and preparation of a loved one, including dressing and presentation for families who choose to have a viewing.
The funeral directors at Fitzgerald’s Funerals can talk with you about your loved one’s circumstances and help you understand what to expect.
What Happens During a Viewing?
There isn’t a ceremony unless your family wants one.
You might sit beside your loved one.
Talk to them.
Hold their hand.
Bring a flower.
Play a song.
Say something you didn’t get the opportunity to say.
Or say nothing at all.
You may stay only briefly.
You might want more time.
There is no performance required.
Can We Choose What They Wear?
Talk with Fitzgerald’s Funerals about the clothing and personal items you would like included.
For many families, choosing familiar clothing can become a surprisingly important part of preparing for a viewing.
Think about the person rather than what seems conventionally appropriate.
What would look like them?
That familiar shirt.
A favourite dress.
Something connected with their culture or faith.
A piece of jewellery everyone remembers.
Familiar details can matter.
What if I Don’t Want a Viewing?
That is okay too.
You may prefer your last visual memory to be of your loved one during life.
Perhaps sitting on the verandah.
Laughing at dinner.
Fishing.
Gardening.
Holding the grandchildren.
Choosing not to view someone does not diminish your relationship with them.
Nobody should pressure you into making a decision that does not feel right.
What About Children?
Children can have very different understandings of someone passing away.
If a child wants to see their loved one, consider their age, personality and relationship with the person.
Explain what they can expect using clear, gentle language.
And give them permission to change their mind.
If you are unsure, you can also discuss your concerns with Fitzgerald’s Funerals before making the decision.
What if I Change My Mind?
Please tell us.
You might initially say no and then wake the next morning wanting to see them.
Or you might plan to have a viewing and later decide you don’t want to.
Feelings can change quickly after someone passes away.
Where circumstances allow, the team at Fitzgerald’s Funerals can explain what options remain available.
Caring for Your Loved One in Townsville
For many families, one of the hardest parts of arranging a funeral is entrusting somebody they love to people they may only have just met.
That trust matters.
Fitzgerald’s Funerals understands that caring for your loved one is about much more than completing the practical requirements of a funeral.
It is about dignity.
Respect.
And recognising that the person in our care means everything to somebody.
Our role isn’t to tell you how you should say goodbye.
It is to make sure you understand your choices.
So if you’re wondering:
“Should I see them again?”
Talk with us.
Ask the questions you’re worried about.
And then make the decision that feels right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we view our loved one before the funeral?
Yes. Fitzgerald’s Funerals can discuss arrangements for families who would like to spend time with their loved one before the funeral.
Do we have to have a viewing?
No. A viewing is a personal choice and is not something every family wants.
What happens at a funeral viewing?
A viewing provides an opportunity to spend some private time with your loved one before the funeral.
Can Fitzgerald’s Funerals tell us what to expect beforehand?
Yes. If you have concerns about seeing your loved one, talk with the funeral director before making your decision.
Can we bring something meaningful to a viewing?
Discuss any flowers, letters, photographs or other personal items you would like to bring with Fitzgerald’s Funerals.
Can children attend a viewing?
Families can consider what is appropriate for each child. If you are unsure, discuss the circumstances with the funeral director beforehand.
What if I change my mind about seeing my loved one?
Speak with Fitzgerald’s Funerals. Where circumstances allow, the team can explain the options available.
Where is Fitzgerald’s Funerals in Townsville?
Fitzgerald’s Funerals is located at 7 Yeatman Street, Hyde Park, Townsville QLD 4810.