Even During Uncertain Times, Morrissett is Here For You

A lot of changes have happened in our world in just a few short weeks. In light of these current events Morrissett has made some changes to help ensure the health and safety of the individuals we serve as well as our employees. What will not change is our commitment and availability to help you when you need it most.

We are currently operating under a modified structure and following the best practices urged by the CDC in response to the COVID-19 epidemic. Our staff has been instructed in ways to help keep our building safe, and our daily activities have been modified. Sanitation procedures have also been enhanced, and hand sanitizer is available in prominent positions throughout our facility.

Morrissett Funeral & Cremation Service will remain open in some capacity even if a mandated statewide shut-down should occur. That is because, according to the guidelines issued by the Department of Homeland Security’s CISA, those who serve in deathcare roles are classified as “critical infrastructure workers.” This means we will continue to be available to assist families should the need arise.

Planning meetings can occur over the phone. Services are currently limited to 10 family members and not open to the public. The ceremony can also be streamed online so that others can participate remotely, or they can watch it at a later time. At a future date, and once the current constraints have ended, we can also plan a larger memorial service with more individuals in attendance if you so wish. We know this is hard, but these guidelines have been put into place for everyone’s safety.

Please note that honor guards are not currently available for the ceremonies of Veterans. VA cemeteries have also put some additional guidelines in place regarding interments. Please talk to a member of our staff for more information on these changes.

We know that planning a funeral after losing someone you care about can be overwhelming, and these changes come during an already difficult time. However, these procedures have been put in place to help ensure the safety of your family as well as to help protect the general public. We at Morrissett are committed to working with you to find the best way to safely meet your needs.

In addition to our Funeral Directors we have trained Life Tribute Celebrants on staff who are able to help plan and officiate the ceremonial aspects of a memorial service. They have special resources available that have been created for the smaller & online services that have been necessitated by the current situation. The Celebrants and our Chaplain/Aftercare Director are also available if you are struggling with the death of your loved one and need someone to talk to.

Our leader, Larry Spiaggi, recently shared some thoughts on our Facebook page.  Grief is a powerful emotion, and that grief can be further complicated when family members are unable to mourn together in person. Some may be tempted to delay any sort of observation until more people can be in attendance. However, the power of ritual to help aid the healing process should not be underestimated. Although the funeral of your loved one may not look like what you would have envisioned, even a small observance at home can help you find some feelings of closure and peace. Larry wrote, “Something as simple as having a candle-lighting and sharing some memories will help you begin to allow your grief to become mourning.”

Together we can find creative and meaningful ways to help you honor your loved one with dignity, giving them the tribute that they deserve.

Remember that we are committed to be the calm in the midst of this storm. We can – and will – help families make decisions that are good for them and our community. Whatever you need, we will work with you and walk alongside you through this process. Should you have any questions please contact us at (804) 275-7828 or info@morrissett.com.

We are all in this together. Let us know how we can help you.

Morrissett Funeral & Cremation Service

6500 Iron Bridge Rd.

Richmond, VA 23234

(804) 275-7828    info@morrissett.com