There is a rich history behind death across cultures and the evolution of mortuary sciences. Every culture treats/views death differently, In Africa alone there are hundreds of differing beliefs. But there is a common theme across it, the belief that the deceased live on even after death, becoming their ancestors and guiding those who need it. The life of the deceased is celebrated with lively dancing, color, and food. They believe that without a proper burial their ancestor will be trapped and be doomed to wander as a ghost.

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Asia is another example filled with a variety of beliefs stemming across cultures and religions. In China, they cover mirrors and hang cloth in their doorways, not doing so will result in misfortune. In Tibet, they leave corpses on a platform for vultures to eat and after the funeral, their soul is released to Paradise. In Korea, they have cremation beads decorating their homes to honor the dead. 

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North America is heavily influenced by religious beliefs. Death is viewed as a negative thing and is to be grieved. It's also a taboo subject to some, being denied and shut down. Rituals there are usually open casket funerals, burials, and visitations. Though a large percent of the population is influenced by religious traditions, there are still those who will celebrate the life of their loved one and will party in remembrance of them.

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There is no right or wrong way to grieve over a loss, every culture has its own unique way to honor the deceased. Death is something everyone faces at some point in their lives, and the many different ways to remember the deceased is beautiful.