For superheroes, there’s no such thing as a small goodbye. Saying goodbye to iconic superhero characters is heartfelt and sentimental, and it’s a moment to remember the unique journey of each individual superhero. If you’re saying goodbye to a loved one who’s as out of this world as a superhero, how do you plan a superhero funeral?
Jump ahead to these sections:
- What Is a Themed Funeral?
- Superhero Funeral Theme Ideas
- Superhero-Themed Ceremony and Reception Ideas
- Superhero-Themed Remembrance or Keepsake Ideas
Superheroes are more than just a trend. They’re a way of life in many social circles, and they’re a source of happiness and imagination. With recent superhero-themed funerals capturing the news' attention, such as this superhero procession for an 8-year old in Boston, it’s no wonder many people are looking to the sky. As the saying goes, “It’s not goodbye—it’s see you later.”
Whether you’re planning a funeral for a loved one, someone in your community, or even yourself, here’s how to plan a superhero funeral. Themed funerals are becoming more common, especially as people move away from traditional, religious services. Like the infamous Star Wars funeral theme, there are so many ways to celebrate someone’s life through superheroes and storytelling.
What Is a Themed Funeral?
First, what is a themed funeral? How does it differ from a traditional funeral, and is this the right fit for you? Though most people have an idea of what a funeral should look like, typically a conservative, somber occasion, it doesn’t have to be this way. While grieving a loved one is always challenging, funerals are an opportunity to celebrate one’s life and legacy.
A themed funeral is a personalized service created around someone that reflects the life of the deceased. For example, it can honor a child’s love of the zoo or an adult’s passion for travel. There are endless ways to incorporate themes into funerals. They can be traditional, relying on religious elements with only a hint of a unique theme. Alternatively, they can be an all-out extravaganza, putting the fun in funerals.
When you choose a themed funeral, you honor something unique about your loved one. This can help the family find peace during a difficult time, and it’s also a source of inspiration for guests. It can often shift the mood from somber to warm and comforting. Though this is a highly personal choice, more and more families are opting for a themed funeral. In this guide, we’ll explore the wide world of superhero-themed funerals.
Superhero Funeral Theme Ideas
What type of celebration is fit for a superhero? These superhero funeral theme ideas below are inspired by the greatest comic book tales. Whether you’re team DC or Marvel, there is a theme idea to suit your taste.
1. Superhero dress code
First, one of the easiest ways to honor a superhero lover is by encouraging a unique dress code for the funeral service. Though traditionally guests will wear black, this is becoming less common. Instead, invite guests to dress as their favorite superhero in your loved one’s honor.
Having an entire guest list filled with the greatest heroes of all time is quite the sight to behold. It’s a tribute worthy of a hero, and this special memorial will go down in history.
2. Superhero theme music
Another idea that’s more subtle is to honor your loved one with superhero theme music throughout the funeral. Perfect for a memorial video or slideshow, a superhero playlist honors an out-of-this-world life while still keeping the mood for the occasion.
What superhero songs are great for a funeral? Here are some of the best picks to create your own funeral playlist:
- “Prelude and Main Title March” from Superman the Movie
- “Batman” from Batman: The Animated Series
- “The Avengers” by Alan Silvestri
3. Superhero procession
Many funerals include a procession in which family members carry the loved one’s casket into the church or venue. Having the procession dress in their superhero finest in honor of their loved one is quite the spectacle. Not only does this fit their strength in this important moment, but it’s also a meaningful tribute.
4. Custom casket or urn
Caskets and urns aren’t one-size-fits-all when it comes to their style and appearance. There are so many ways to create a unique casket or urn with your loved one in mind. There are many superhero wraps that can be applied to caskets, and you can also choose a Superman urn.
5. Hire hero actors
Actors are used at funerals for a number of reasons, but they’re often a way to help families say goodbye. Hero actors dress as your loved one’s favorite superhero, visiting to pay homage to your loved one this last time. Whether you want them to participate in the ceremony a little or a lot, this is a welcome request.
Superhero-Themed Ceremony and Reception Ideas
Superhero elements can also be incorporated into the ceremony and reception. These ideas below carry your loved one’s passion for superheroes into all elements of the funeral, giving space for personal touches.
6. Quotes or readings
Some of the greatest lines in movies, TV, or literature are from superhero stories. These heroes have a knack for finding the right words to say, and these words can come in handy during times of grief. Including a favorite quote, reading, or passage from a comic book makes for a meaningful send-off. Here are some inspirational superhero quotes to choose from:
- “It’s not who I am underneath, but what I do, that defines me.” (The Dark Knight)
- “I’m with you ‘till the end of the line.” (The Winter Soldier)
- “With great power comes great responsibility.” (Spider-Man)
7. Superhero page decorations
Take a page out of comic books for a comic-styled reception. Create larger-than-life comic pages of your own, or blow up your favorite spreads. These make great additions to your funeral decor, and they add a bit of cheer to an otherwise somber space.
8. Superhero travel
Many families are also traveling for funerals or receptions. Hold an informal reception or celebration in one of the superhero travel spots across the globe. With new theme park additions like Disneyland’s Avengers Campus, it’s possible to honor your loved one with a trip into the story.
9. Floral arrangement
Flowers tell a story of their own. Though most families opt for traditional bouquets, don’t be afraid to step outside of the lines. Floral arrangements in superhero symbols, colors, and designs are a simple way to add a unique touch to your service. This is great for a graveside memorial as well.
10. Hero foods
Lastly, honor the hero in all of us with superhero-themed foods. There are so many fun foods to make you feel like a superman or woman yourself, and these don’t have to be complicated or expensive.
Whether you dive in with Peter Parker’s favorite cherry pie or Iron Man’s burgers, this is a fun way to enjoy the tastier things in life. Better yet, invite guests to create their own superhero potluck inspired by their favorite characters.
Superhero-Themed Remembrance or Keepsake Ideas
Finally, honor your loved one’s memory with these superhero-themed remembrance or keepsake ideas. Remembrance items are mementos you hold onto for years to come as a reminder of your loved one’s legacy.
11. Charm bracelet
Superhero charm bracelets aren’t just a trendy way to share your love for all things heroes. It can also be a subtle tribute to your loved one. Aside from memorial jewelry and memorial diamonds, there are many subtle, unique charm bracelets to choose from. Alex and Ani has a unique line of Wonder Woman charms, for instance, each embracing the power of courage and strength.
12. Memorial tattoo
Next, a memorial tattoo is a permanent expression of your love. Memorial tattoos can be created with anything in mind, and many artists create stunning superhero-inspired creations. Having a depiction of your loved one’s favorite hero is a way to hold their memory close.
13. Memorial album or book
A memorial album or book features the story of your loved one’s life. Why not turn their tale into a comic book, making them their very own superhero? They were a hero to you, and now they’ll live on forever in a unique tribute.
14. Fireworks
All superheroes go out with a bang. A firework tribute might not be something you can hold onto, but it is something you’ll remember. Heavenly Stars turns human ashes into real fireworks you can launch into the sky. Talk about shining bright!
15. Donation
Last but not least, make a donation inspired by your loved one. Organizations like Superhero Collective visit children in hospitals dressed as their favorite superheroes. Not only does this allow these kids to experience a special interaction, but it also brings the magic of these stories to life. A donation is one of the most powerful keepsakes of all.
A Funeral Worthy of a Hero
As you can see, there are so many ways to honor your loved ones through the stories of their favorite heroes. From infamous Asgardian burials to dressing up as your favorite character for a ceremony, how we honor those we love matters. Though traditional funerals will always have their place, feel free to express your loved one’s personality however you wish in their final sendoff.
Have you recently lost someone? It’s difficult to know what steps to take. Our post-loss checklist guides you through these next stages, reminding you that you’re never truly alone. Loss is universal, and it’s often what brings us together.
Sources:
- Baker, Austin Carroll. “18 Most Epic Superhero Quotes in Movie History, Ranked.” Screen Rant. 30 April 2017. ScreenRant.com.
- “‘Superhero’s Procession’ Will Honor Young Aquaman Fan Danny Sheehan in Marshfield.” CBS Boston. 11 August 2021. CBSLocal.com.