Attending an End-of-Life Event? Follow this Helpful Guide to Funeral Etiquette

By: Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services
Saturday, July 20, 2024

Whether it’s your first funeral or you need a refresher, this guide to funeral etiquette will help you offer your support with grace and dignity.

Funerals and memorial services are about celebrating the life of the departed while also respecting the needs of the family members at a difficult time. Being polite, thoughtful, and appropriate in your behavior and dress are the keys to good manners at end-of-life events.

To help you, we have compiled the following brief guide to funeral etiquette.

Send flowers or make a donation.

It’s appropriate to send flowers to the bereaved family at their home before the funeral. If you’re not close with the family, it’s also acceptable to send them directly to the funeral home or bring flowers to the service. It’s common for the family to request donations to a relevant charity instead of receiving funeral flowers. If this is the case, it’s best to honor their request for a donation. You can typically find this information in the funeral notice or by calling the funeral home. 

Carefully choose your attire.

A good rule of thumb when deciding what to wear to a funeral is to dress as if you were going to a job interview. Generally, this means sticking to something conservative, understated, and dark or neutral in color. If you’re attending a funeral in another religion or culture, it’s best to research the appropriate dress code.

Don’t just show up.

If you’ve heard the news about someone you know passing on, check the obituary to see who can attend the funeral. Funerals aren’t always open to the general public, and there may be specific times for friends and family to visit. There may also be rules about bringing children and whether it’s a public or private service. 

Don’t take photos.

Funerals bring people together who rarely see each other. You might wind up with relatives and friends you haven’t seen in years. While you might feel tempted to catch up and take photos together, the funeral of a loved one is not the appropriate time or place. Avoid taking photos and catching up during the funeral; instead, make arrangements to visit while they’re in town.

Stay off your phone.

A funeral is a time to support the family of the departed and pay your respects, so don’t answer your phone. Turn it off, put it on silent, or leave it in the car. You’ll feel more present and available to support those around you.

Immediate family is seated first.

Generally, immediate family members and close friends sit at the front during the funeral service. Then, additional close family and friends sit close behind. If you’re not family or a close friend, it’s proper etiquette to wait until other people take their seats and find a place behind them.

Prepare some words of sympathy. 

Funeral receptions are a chance for mourners to express their condolences to the bereaved family in person. It’s a time to reflect on fond memories and share kind words with other attendees. With this in mind, it’s wise to prepare a few polite and sincere words of sympathy for the immediate family. When in doubt, think about what you would want to hear if you lost a loved one. If you’ve never met the family before, introduce yourself and tell them how you knew the departed.

Find ways to offer help.

As the family goes through their grief journey, it might be hard for them to stay on top of cooking, cleaning, and other daily chores. Offer to help with basic tasks like grocery shopping or running errands, or drop off some pre-made meals.

Funerals and memorials are revered end-of-life events that can bring great comfort to those who have suffered the loss of a loved one. If you have questions about this guide to funeral etiquette, or if you wish to make funeral arrangements, we are here for you. Please reach out to us anytime.

About Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services: As a leading African American-owned and operated funeral and cremation organization, Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services has provided a ministry of care to thousands of grieving families. We promise to provide our highest level of distinguished service and respect to families who entrust us to honor their loved ones. With two convenient locations serving North and West Philadelphia, it is always our pleasure to be of service. For more information about our funeral, cremation, memorial, repast, and grief counseling services, please visit batchelorbrothers.com.

Leave a comment
Name*:
Email:
Comment*:
Please enter the numbers and letters you see in the image. Note that the case of the letters entered matters.

Comments

Please wait

Previous Posts

Funeral Directors: What They Do and How They Help During Difficult Times

Most of us are unaware of the invaluable services funeral directors provide, bridging the gap between sorrow and healing. The role of the funeral director may seem simple, but its complex and mult...

Choosing a Funeral Celebrant? Here are Five Important Things to Know.

If you are responsible for choosing a funeral celebrant, seek someone who can provide a comforting presence and navigate the complexities of organizing a meaningful service. Selecting the individu...

It’s Healthy Aging Month: Eight Practical Ways to Boost Your Wellbeing

This Healthy Aging Month, discover how simple lifestyle changes can unlock the door to a more fulfilling life as you age. September is Healthy Aging Month, a time to promote ways for people to sta...

Seven Common Misconceptions about Hospice Care Explained

Misconceptions about hospice care often stem from a lack of accurate information and awareness. The many inaccuracies surrounding hospice care create unnecessary fear and reluctance at a challengi...

Choosing a Cemetery Property? Don’t Make These Common Mistakes

Choosing a cemetery property is a delicate process that requires the balancing of emotional comfort with practical considerations. When a loved one passes away, there are countless decisions to be...

Celebrate National Wellness Month with These Ten Wholesome Habits

Celebrate National Wellness Month by investing in your health with practical strategies to boost your well-being. Every August, National Wellness Month provides a dedicated time to focus on self-c...

Five Tips to Help You Choose the Perfect Outfit for a Summertime Funeral

Balancing formality and comfort is key when dressing for a summertime funeral. Attending a funeral is an emotional experience, and figuring out what to wear can be an added stressor. This is espec...

July is Healthy Vision Month: Take These Steps to Prioritize Your Eye Health

Celebrate Healthy Vision Month by empowering yourself with the knowledge to protect your eyes. Every July, the National Eye Institute designates Healthy Vision Month to emphasize the importance of...

How Much Do You Know About Silent Strokes? Eight Ways to Reduce Your Risk

Arm yourself with knowledge and take action to decrease the risk of silent strokes. Is it possible to have a stroke and not be aware of it? The short answer is yes. Silent strokes are stealthy, lu...

Six Creative Ideas for Hosting a Meaningful Repast on a Budget

With thoughtful planning, hosting a repast on a budget can become a cherished tribute to a departed loved one. The repast or reception is an important part of the funeral process. Bringing everyon...