The coronavirus pandemic is touching all aspects of life – even death.

Local funeral homes have been forced to cancel visitation and minimize funeral services after Gov. Bill Lee’s executive order declaring no gatherings larger than 10 or more people.

“We can’t have 100 people packed into our chapel right now. We just can’t do it,” said High Funeral Home president Rocky Davenport. “If it was my mama, I’d be upset about it too, but we’re doing the best we can under the circumstances. Some people have been upset, and I would be too, but they’ve also been understanding. It’s not a perfect system.”

Davenport noted the governor’s regulations have been enacted in the spirit of keeping people healthy. To comply, High’s has been conducting private family viewings at the funeral home, then conducting graveside services.

McMinnville Funeral Home co-owner Diana Christian admitted placing restrictions on funeral services is difficult.

“This is complicating things for families who are grieving the loss of their loved ones,” said Christian. “We’re going to adhere to the executive order of the governor.”

Prior to canceling visitation services, High’s had already suspended the longtime tradition of bringing food to the funeral home. With visitation not an option at this point, many families have opted to have a celebration of life at a later date when restrictions are lifted.

“We’ve never crossed this line before,” said Gardens of Memory funeral director Danny Barnes. “We will follow government regulations and keep people safe.”