Funerals are a time when handshakes, hugs and other comforting gestures are most needed, but people are being asked to keep their distance during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Local funeral homes have been taking steps to prevent contact in an effort to slow the spread of the virus.
Three Orillia funeral homes — Carson, Mundell and Simcoe — still have their doors open but are encouraging people to make arrangements over the phone and complete transactions online.
At Carson Funeral Homes, services are still available in the building but are, by law, limited to 10 people, excluding staff. However, no one has wanted to have a service yet because of that restriction. Also, for those who are going to the home to make arrangements in person, the limit is two people, but they are being asked to call before dropping in.
“It’s pretty limiting when you think about the size of the modern family,” said owner Dave Carson.
He has had family members come in at different times for visitations.
“Every family member will have the chance to say goodbye to their loved ones,” he said.
Families have been understanding of the new restrictions, he said, because “they acknowledge that we’re in a situation here.”
There is also the option of recording or live streaming.
Some people who have entered the funeral home have extended their hands for a shake, and having to decline and ask them to stay a certain distance away “feels off and insensitive,” Carson said.
“We’re not trying to be insensitive.”
Simcoe Funeral Home has suspended funeral services in its James Street facility, partly because “a lot of clergy are opting out” of them, said managing funeral director Mary-Ellen Patrick. So, it is only offering gravesite services.
“Even then, (clergy) are hesitant,” she said.
Like Carson, Patrick’s doors are open, but she, too, encourages people to make arrangements on the phone and complete transactions online.
The same goes for Mundell Funeral Home, which is not conducting funeral services in its facility, opting only to allow people in for final viewings.
“The celebration of life doesn’t have to happen today. It gives families time to focus on what that celebration can look like,” said Nicole Johnstone, chapel manager and funeral director. “The families we’ve been dealing with are very respectful. I’m amazed, especially because it’s such an emotional time.”
No one has requested a live stream from Mundell Funeral Home, but Johnstone said that could be arranged if desired.
None of the three funeral homes are concerned about capacity should there be a spike in deaths.
“All the funeral homes in this area are well prepared,” Carson said, noting they have additional space off site.
About 70 per cent of the deceased he deals with at his business are cremated, which “makes it a little easier” in terms of capacity.
Mundell Funeral Home has a partnership with another funeral home “that has extensive refrigeration if the need should arise,” Johnstone said.
“We are ready.”
Carson’s message for people who are worried about funeral arrangements during the pandemic is “don’t panic.”
“They’ll always have an opportunity to say their goodbyes,” he said.
