Quakers, who have a relatively unritualistic faith, use memorial services to memorialize their family and community members (this form of commemoration would be found mainly within segments of American and Canadian Quakerism - not necessarily worldwide). The memorial service typically is focused on the personality of the individual who has died, and the emphasis is on life. The emphasis is less on the dead body, as is the case with a funeral service. Typically the service is less expensive and is frequently performed by friends and family - offering a greater amount of flexibility in terms of location. Each service can be tailored to the needs and circumstances of the family.

Memorial Service - Elements of a Quaker Farewell Service

• The service may take place several weeks after death in order to allow time to design a more personalized service.
• The deceased is often cremated immediately after death.
• The clerk (director of Quaker meetings) opens the service by welcoming the attendees.
• Attendees gather and bring flowers to place on a table at the front and / or center of the service
• Family and friends may offer musical talents during the service.
• A funeral program highlighting the deceased's accomplishments
• Silent worship is encouraged during Quaker services. When someone feels moved to speak he or she will rise and share something appropriate about the deceased's life - leaving time before and after someone speaks for silent reflection.
• Popular hymns may be sung.
• The surviving spouse may share some concluding remarks.
• A slide show may be presented of the deceased person's life.
• A reception will usually follow.
• Ashes may be scattered in subsequent months in a special place.

References:

(Irish, Donald. Memorial Services among Quakers and Unitarians, Ethnic Variations in Dying, Death and Grief. Taylor & Francis, 1993)