Mexican Traditions in Life and Death
Here at Morales Funeral Home, we love being part of a city rich in diversity. We know how important it is to honor the varied backgrounds of the Houston-area families we serve. Our professional team realizes that just as every individual is unique, every culture is unique, with traditions and rituals that help define its identity.
Our own family’s proud heritage affects the rich history of our funeral home, as we help people find peace, renewal, and unity through traditional funerals, burial, and cremation. The Mexican roots of our founders, Felix and Angela Morales, are evident in much of what we do. When the Morales couple opened the funeral home in 1931, they were pioneers in the area, paving the way for other Hispanic businesses with their wise decisions, courage, and tenacity.
Today, we continue to live out their values, knowing all they went through to bring us to this point. One of the ways we honor Felix and Angela is by holding onto Mexican traditions that celebrate life and help us commemorate those who have died. These traditions helped shape them and continue to add meaning to our lives today. Likewise, we’re always interested in learning more about where you, our neighbors, came from. We all have a story, and we are grateful when you are able to share your story with us.
Honoring Life. Mexican culture is known for many things that reflect the vibrancy of our people. Think of the music of Mexico: Violins, trumpets, and guitars are part of nearly every celebration, large and small. Or how about traditional Mexican food? Our culinary culture is extensive and sophisticated and has helped shape our identity and traditions. It only takes a bite of a soft, homemade tortilla or a flavorful tamale to see why our cuisine has been embraced across the globe!
Our culture is also known for its strong foundation in unity, and high regard for family connections, and this care and compassion extends to the neighbors we serve every day. When you walk in our door, we’ll think of you – and treat you – as one of our own. We know how much your loved ones mean to you and are here to walk alongside you as you celebrate important relationships. We can make suggestions that help you pay tribute to those in your life who have passed away and create an event that is unique, fitting, and memorable. This can include holding a reception after the funeral as a time to share memories and spend time together without having to worry about booking a restaurant for a large group
or arrange for something in your home.
Memorializing Death. Our religious beliefs deeply affect many areas of our lives, from music to architecture to local customs – and particularly views on the afterlife. According to traditional Mexican beliefs, people begin a new life after they are buried, so they are laid to rest with their favorite items. Here at Morales, we know how important it is add personal details to a funeral service, and the healing that happens as a result. We’ll help you design an observance that’s as unique as the life you’re commemorating. You can have your service anywhere, and any way, you want. You can choose to play the music your loved one enjoyed or say a prayer that is special to your family. We can even arrange to have doves, butterflies, or balloons released at the close of the service. In Mexico, a vigil, funeral, and reception help bring together a community to share laughter and memories. Our team can help you do the same. Additionally, if you would like to buried in Mexico – or whatever country or state is home for you – our expert team can help you arrange this in the most convenient and affordable way.
Our experienced staff at Morales Funeral Home embraces the beauty and value of different cultures and recognizes how families move toward healing when they celebrate and honor lives together. Reach out to us if you have questions, would like to learn about our preplanning services, or to hear how we can work with you during your time of need.
