A Cremation with a Memorial Gathering is a service provided to families who have chosen a Direct Cremation, yet wish to have a gathering of family and friends. Families attend a Memorial Gathering either at the funeral home or at their place of worship. This type of service affords families an opportunity to gather and "celebrate" the life of their loved one (generally in a condensed time frame of a few hours). It also allows for families to have a formal service if they so choose. While the remains of your loved one will not be present at the memorial service, families are encouraged to provide pictures and momentos that help celebrate the life of their loved one. tomical Gift Association of Illinois.