What happens behind the scenes before a loved one’s viewing? In this eye-opening episode of The Good Grief Podcast, Michael O’Connell breaks down the details of what goes into preparing someone for a final goodbye.
From grooming and attire to the unexpected things most families never think about, this is a transparent and thoughtful look into the care and respect funeral directors provide.
Whether you're curious, apprehensive, or preparing for your own planning, this episode offers clarity, comfort, and even a few moments of levity.
Takeaways:
- Embalming is only one part of the preparation process.
- Every detail—from clean fingernails to clothing—is treated with dignity and care.
- Private viewings are possible even without embalming.
- Small touches (like trimming nails or fixing collars) matter deeply to families.
Episode Highlights:
- [1:00] Why people say “they look great” at viewings
- [2:00] Cleaning nails and grooming the body
- [4:45] Why every detail matters to families
- [7:10] Preparing someone who passed unexpectedly
- [10:20] Clothing, hair, and making someone “look like themselves”
- [14:30] What families need to provide (and what they don’t)
- [20:45] Why transparency matters in funeral prep
Memorable Quotes
Michael O’Connell:
- “We prepare people the way we’d want our own family cared for.”
- “Even if no one will see it, we still trim nails and clean behind them.”
- “Sometimes, it’s the smallest details that bring the most peace.”
- “We don’t take shortcuts—because families notice everything.”
Pete Waggoner (Host):
- “You never think about things like fingernails—but you notice them.”
- “There’s a lot of dignity in what happens behind the scenes.”
- “That’s why people say, ‘They look like themselves.’ It’s not by accident.”
