Wake services are gatherings held to honor and remember a deceased person before their funeral. These events provide family and friends an opportunity to pay their respects, share memories, and support one another in their grief. Wake services can take place at a funeral home, a family residence, or another location meaningful to the deceased. Typically, wake services include viewing the body, sharing stories, and sometimes offering prayers or readings. They may also feature refreshments and a more informal atmosphere compared to the funeral itself. This allows attendees to celebrate the life of the deceased, such as family members and friends, in a supportive environment.