Additional Options

Ralph Schugar Chapel is pleased to accommodate almost any request. Below is a short list of the more commonly utilized “alternative” services.

We at Ralph Schugar Chapel understand that planning a funeral can be a very difficult task. With that in mind, we invite you to call us at (412) 621-8282 to discuss any questions you may have with a licensed funeral director.

Forwarding to Another Funeral Home

This includes the use of our facilities (including our chapel), staff and equipment for a funeral service and one hour of visitation; transfer of the deceased to airport; an airtray and a temporary grave marker. Certain airlines may require a sealed metal container for forwarding when there is no embalming. It is also possible to have the funeral service at a local synagogue or temple, if desired, followed by forwarding to another city.
Receiving of Deceased From Another Funeral Home

This includes transfer of deceased to our funeral home, temporary shelter of deceased, transfer to a local cemetery or crematory, and the desired facilities and required services of staff.
A Memorial Service

This includes basic services of funeral director and staff, use of lead/errand/clergy car, use of facilities (including chapel), staff and equipment for funeral service, use of facilities, staff and equipment for one hour of visitation, a register book, 100 acknowledgement cards, delivery of shiva supplies and one shiva candle. The body of the deceased is not present for the visitation or the funeral.
Private Family Viewings

Private family viewings are available, but may be subject to time limitations. Please ask one of our staff about setting up a private viewing for your family.
Taharah (Religious Rites)

Taharah is the ritual washing and dressing of the deceased in a burial shroud. The Taharah is performed by the Chevrah Kadisha, a volunteer group of men and women, approved by local Rabbinic authorities. The ritual of Taharah is required for burial by most of our local Jewish cemeteries and Clergy.
Shomer (To Watch)

Shmeerah is the Jewish tradition of watching over the deceased. This is performed by a member of the Jewish community, and is available 24 hours a day, as requested.
Immediate Burials

Immediate burials forgo any funeral service and are limited to local removal and shelter of the remains to comply with local ordinances, transportation of remains to local cemetery, necessary services of staff for authorizations, permits and certificates, and supervision of burial. Choices include purchasing a casket from our funeral home, purchasing an alternative container (cardboard) or the purchaser providing their own casket.
Forwarding to Israel

For many, burial in Israel fulfills a lifelong connection to the land and their Jewish heritage. Please ask one of our funeral directors about this process.
Disinterment and Reinterment

Families may choose to disinter and reinter a loved one to move them closer to other family members, fulfill a final wish, or relocate remains due to cemetery closures or land use changes. We work closely with you and the cemetery to honor your loved one through the entire process.
Virtual Services

Zooming a funeral service allows friends and family who are unable to attend in person—due to distance, illness, or other limitations—to participate and honor their loved one. It provides a meaningful way to share in the service, offer support, and stay connected during a time of loss.
Shiva

Shiva is the Jewish mourning period observed for seven days following the burial of a close relative. During this time, family members gather in one home to receive visitors, share memories, and engage in traditional prayers and rituals. Please ask one of our staff if you need to borrow folding chairs and prayer books for your shiva.
Therapy Dog

Laney is a hypoallergenic Goldendoodle available to provide comfort and emotional support to grieving families. Her gentle nature and calm demeanor is especially helpful for children.
Off-Site Funerals

In addition to a traditional chapel service or a graveside service, a funeral or memorial service can also take place at a Temple, Synagogue, or other religious facility. Please ask one of our staff about having a funeral at an off-site location.
Personalized Services

Some individuals choose to personalize a funeral to better reflect the unique personality, values, or life story of their loved one. While traditional Jewish funerals follow specific customs and rituals, personalization—such as including favorite music, readings, or memories—can provide additional comfort and meaning for the family. It allows for a more intimate and individualized way to honor and remember the deceased.
Tours & Lectures

We offer guided tours of our funeral home to help individuals and groups become familiar with Jewish end-of-life traditions in a respectful and educational setting. Additionally, we provide guest lectures on Jewish funeral rituals, grief, and mourning practices, tailored for schools, community groups, or faith organizations. These programs aim to foster understanding, compassion, and cultural awareness.
Funeral Honors

Our funeral home is honored to accommodate special funeral tributes from military, Masonic, and other fraternal or civic organizations. We work closely with these groups to ensure their customs and ceremonial honors are respectfully integrated into the service. These meaningful tributes provide a dignified farewell that reflects the individual’s service and affiliations.

For immediate assistance, please contact (412) 621-8282

RALPH SCHUGAR CHAPEL

Pittsburgh’s Only Jewish Family Owned and Operated Funeral Home

Additional Options

Forwarding to Another Funeral Home

Receiving of Deceased From Another Funeral Home

A Memorial Service

Private Family Viewings

Taharah (Religious Rites)

Shomer (To Watch)

Immediate Burials

Forwarding to Israel

Disinterment and Reinterment

Virtual Services

Shiva

Therapy Dog

Off-Site Funerals

Personalized Services

Tours & Lectures

Funeral Honors

Ralph Schugar Chapel

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