What to Bring (and Not to Bring) to a Funeral or Memorial Service
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
Funeral etiquette is the proper behavior expected of both guests and planners at a funeral or memorial service. Though the family is free to define what's meaningful to them, it's always important to understand basic funeral etiquette.
Funeral etiquette is the proper protocol for offering support and condolences at a funeral or memorial service. Whenever you attend a funeral, it's important to be mindful of proper funeral etiquette to avoid offending anyone or overstepping the family's boundaries. Though funeral etiquette has slowly evolved over the years, some things remain the same. From wearing black to keeping your emotions relatively contained, these provide guidelines for comfort and support.
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
Even if you're planning a funeral, you still need to be aware of funeral etiquette. This helps determine what happens at a funeral as well as how the family will act. Though you're free to make your own changes, having a clear guide can be a comfort. Recently, more families have abandoned some aspects of funeral etiquette, especially related to dress code. Ultimately, it's up to you to determine what's important during this service.
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
At a funeral service, it's important to pay respect to the bereaved family. While you know you need to express your condolences, what do you say at a funeral? Finding the right words in person is difficult. Luckily, you don't have to overthink when it comes to what to say at a funeral. As long as your words come from the heart, you're on the right track. Whether you share a special memory, personalized words of encouragement, or just I'm sorry for your loss, these are all perfectly acceptable.
By Cassie Barthuly, BA in English
By Cassie Barthuly, BA in English
By Kate Wight, BA in English
By Danielle Solomon, MA in Professional Writing
What Happens During a Traditional Funeral Service?
By Sarah Kessler
Christian Funerals: Traditions, Etiquette & What to Expect
By Kate Wight, BA in English
Muslim Funerals: What to Expect
By Sarah Kessler
Buddhist Funerals: Traditions, Etiquette & What to Expect
By Belinda McLeod, BA in Secondary Education
Mexican Funerals: Traditions, Customs & What to Expect
By Sarah Kessler
Hindu Funerals: Rituals, Customs & What to Wear
By Yvonne Bertovich
Catholic Funeral Service: Mass, Traditions & What to Expect
By Amy Wolkenhauer, BA in English/Creative Writing
Military Funerals: Etiquette, Burials & Procedures
By Adam Waltner, BA in Creative Writing & American Literature
Jewish Funerals: Traditions, Customs & Etiquette
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
Chinese Funerals: What to Expect, Customs & Traditions
By Erin Coriell, BA in Mass Communication/Media Studies
What's a Mormon (Latter-Day Saints) Funeral Like?
By Sheree McDonald, BA, MA
How to Start an Attention-Grabbing Eulogy + 15 Example Opening Lines
By Belinda McLeod, BA in Secondary Education
Guide to Obituary Etiquette: Rules for Order for Predeceased Family & More
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
How to Write an Unforgettable Eulogy: Step-By-Step with Examples
By Yvonne Bertovich
Guide to Funeral Etiquette for Estranged Families
By Sam Tetrault, BA in English
Police Funerals: What to Expect, Procession and Etiquette
By Cassie Barthuly, BA in English
What Does a Pallbearer Do? Duties, Attire & Etiquette
By Erin Coriell, BA in Mass Communication/Media Studies
Hmong Funerals: Rites, Traditions & What to Expect
By Sarah Kessler
Should You Attend the Wake or the Funeral?
By Belinda McLeod, BA in Secondary Education
Guide to Sitting Shiva for Non-Jews: Etiquette & What Happens
By Erin Coriell, BA in Mass Communication/Media Studies
Masonic Funerals: Rituals, Service & What to Expect
By Cassie Barthuly, BA in English
What's a Wake for a Funeral? Traditions & What to Expect
By Kate Wight, BA in English
Wake Etiquette 101: What to Do (and Not Do) at a Wake
By Kate Wight, BA in English
Firefighter Funerals: Traditions, Etiquette & What to Expect
By Erin Coriell, BA in Mass Communication/Media Studies