Over many decades’ the funeral in general, along with the types of funerals and associated services have evolved. There are differences between funeral directors that work for funeral homes and independent funeral directors. Full-service funeral homes typically have funeral chapels, gathering spaces, and viewing rooms designed to accommodate mourners prior to and during funeral services. Modern funeral homes may also offer post service facilities for luncheons or meals of condolence. In contrast, independent funeral directors may either sub-contract preparatory services or rent available space within another funeral home.
Full-service funeral homes may have higher professional service costs due to their higher fixed overhead cost. Conversely, independent funeral directors may have lower costs. As noted, funerals may now include post service, also referred to as after care offerings such as banquet rooms, luncheons, and fully caterer wakes. The once-venerated Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi had in January 1979 in the face of an uprising on the streets, after a reign of 37 years in which he dreamt of making his country the fifth world power by 2000.
