End-of-Life Celebration at a private residence in Topanga Canyon, CA. About 300 people participated in a spiritual Native American and Jewish ceremony after a home wake had been observed for three days. Prior to the celebration, the body had lain in honor at home on dry ice. Immediately after the ceremony, the body was transported to the crematory and cremated instantly as was the wish of the family. A white pigeon release after the service signified the release of the soul from the body.
Friends – Funeral Home – Alternative Funerals – Mortuary
Ziri Rideaux, Owner and Funeral Director, grew up in her family tradition of Shamanism which includes communication with the ancestors who are highly honored and frequently consulted for guidance. In her early twenties, Ziri volunteered in various hospices and accompanied about 200 dying people through their transitions. After losing both parents and a number of close friends to cancer, Ziri became acutely aware of the lack of support for the dying and their loved ones in our current society. She conceived FRIENDS Funeral Home in order to help people embrace the dying process in natural ways, without fear and awkwardness. Ziri’s hope is to make death a profoundly meaningful experience for all involved that brings people closer together and reaffirms the beauty and value of life AND death.
