COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT FUNERAL ETIQUETTE
Death is something most people deal with on rare occasions, therefore when someone close to you passes away you may experience uncertainty about the proper actions to take. While all families deal with grief differently, there are a few things you can do to alleviate their stresses. Below are common practices that occur after the death of someone. We have provided some common questions and suggestions to make this time a bit easier on both you and the family of the deceased. Visiting the home is an appropriate thing to do when someone passes away. Past traditions have included providing food, childcare, or even running errands which can all be extremely helpful to the family.
1. When is an appropriate time to visit & how long should I stay?
Try to avoid early morning and late evening visits as well as a few hours prior to any funeral ceremonies. Fifteen minutes is a good time frame to visit. Anything more can be a bit overwhelming.
2. Who should visit the home?
Anyone can visit the home, but if you are a distant friend the visitation/family night may provide a more comfortable setting.
3. Should I take food?
Food has been a tradition with funeral ceremonies for decades. Providing a meal for the family is a wonderful gesture and time saver. Meals that are easy to transport for you and easy to reheat are the best ideas.
FAMILY/NIGHT VISITATION
The visitation/family night is the setting for the community of friends to gather and express their condolences. Whether the traditional family night with a family line or the “mingling” visitation, many people ask the same questions.
1. What is appropriate to say to someone at this time?
Sometimes the less said the better. Telling the family how much you respected or cared about their loved one, sharing fond memories, or just expressing your deepest sympathy is often enough. Avoid phrases that may be well intended but that can be misinterpreted, such as, “They are better off now.”, “I’ve been through this too. In time you will be fine.”, or “Time will heal all.” It is oftentimes more appropriate to avoid discussing the cause or manner of death. And remember, just being present shows that you care and is often more substantial than words.
2. What should I wear?
Family night is not as formal as the funeral. A more laid back style is often appropriate. For men, anything from a suit to khaki’s and a golf shirt is common. For women, dresses or dress pants are often worn.
3. How do I approach the family line?
In many cases, you may not know the entire family of the deceased. A good idea is to go through the line expressing your sympathies and casually introducing yourself and your tie to those you may not know. Keep the line moving; move to the side if you are going to carry on a lengthy conversation with a family member. This will direct the people following to go around you and proceed with their visit.
FUNERAL SERVICE
The funeral is a more formal affair than the visitation. It is more structured and ceremonial than family night. Below are a few common questions many people ask.
1. Should I plan on visiting with the family at the funeral?
The timeframe of the event often restricts the family’s ability to interact with attendees. If you cannot attend the visitation period, perhaps a visit to the home at a later time would be more appropriate.
2. When should I arrive?
It is a good idea to arrive at least 20 minutes prior to service time. This gives you time to find parking as well as seating.
3. What should I wear?
Attire for a funeral is a bit more formal than the family night. Men often wear suits or dress pants and a tie. Women wear suits, dresses, or dress pants.
FUNERAL PROCESSION
If one chooses to attend a burial and will be following the funeral procession it is very important you follow instructions given by the funeral home staff member.
1. Where do I park to go in the procession?
In most cases, a staff member will be parking vehicles and will direct you to the proper spot. It is a good idea to tell the staff member if you are a pallbearer to ensure proper directions.
2. How will I be recognized as being part of the procession?
When part of a procession, turn your lights on and hazards if equipped. Pay attention and be careful, not everyone on the highway may recognize a procession.
