What is the difference between a funeral and a memorial service?

The two words are many times used interchangeably, but there is a difference when discussing strict definitions. A funeral is a ritual or service conducted with the dead human body present, normally in a casket. A memorial service is a ritual or service conducted without the body present. The term memorial service is also usually used when an urn containing cremated remains is present for the service. The differences in definition are becoming more difficult to distinguish, because it is being more recognized that the term "funeral" describes any type of service commemorating the life of a loved one, regardless of the details of whether or not the body is present for the service.  more

A funeral always involves the presence and final disposition of a dead human body. A memorial service is any service, which commemorates a death, but does not involve the presence or disposition of the body.  more