[srvrose]

I once had a request for keeping the deceased overnight. We didn't know of the plan before the death call. I relayed it to the coroner, who did not object, providing the funeral home would be cooperative to the plan. The funeral home director was very gracious and gave the family her direct phone number to call when they were ready to release the body. It all went smoothly and the family was very appreciative! It was summer, but the body did not smell even the next day, by the funeral home's report. We had just called to verify that the body had actually been dispatched as planned.

I am also aware of a patient who was "waked" in her own home by a group called "Christian Undertakers". They also do wakes in churches/chapels.

There must be more options out there than we are aware of.