Beliefs About Death

Members believe that Hell does not exist. They interpret Hell symbolically as the "common grave of mankind." Most people simply cease to exist at death; they are annihilated. They believe a Heavenly Kingdom was established in 1914 CE. A "little flock" or Anointed Class" of about 135,400 people currently inhabit Heaven and another 8,600 are still alive who will also spend eternity with God at a later date. Other Jehovah's Witnesses will live in God's earthly kingdom, which will be established after Armageddon. In order to be saved and reach this earthly Kingdom, a person must: accept the doctrines formulated by their governing body, be baptized as a Jehovah's Witness, and follow the program of works as laid out by the Governing Body.

Visitation

If funeral services will be taking place at the deceased's Kingdom Hall, visitation will take place there as well. If the funeral service will be taking place at the funeral home, visitation will be held at the same location, Visitation usually immediately precedes the funeral service.

Funeral Practices

No rituals are performed at time of death, and a minister is not required at such time. An elder usually gives Scriptural comfort to relatives and friends of the deceased at a funeral or Memorial service. Services are held at the Kingdom Hall that the deceased attended or at the funeral home. The body may either be cremated or buried.

Committal Service

A typical Christian committal service including prayers and scripture will be lead by the minister at the graveside or crematorium.

References:

www.watchtower.org