A HELPFUL GUIDE
When someone you know passes away, your first instinct is to offer encouragement, help, and support to those affected — but you may not be sure what to say or do. It's okay to feel this way.
Does it matter what I wear? Can I bring the children? What should I say to the family of the deceased? When should I visit? Martin Brothers Funeral Chapel offers guidance on the proper etiquette of visitations and funerals, so you'll feel more comfortable and prepared for attending services.
What to say
It can be difficult to know what to say to the family of the deceased to express your sympathy. To begin, offer your condolences to the family. If you are comfortable, share a memory of the deceased. In this difficult time, sharing the joy of the deceased’s life can help comfort the bereaved. For example, “I was so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. She was always such a wonderful friend to me."
What to wear
Although black haslong been the traditional color for mourning it isn't required any longer.Wearing a color other than black isn't a sign of disrespect. Generally, play itsafe with any dark or subdued color. Dark suits and ties for men and dresses orsuits for women are always appropriate; just as you would any event, dress insomething suitable for the occasion.
Arriving
When attending a funeral or a service, do your best to be on time. Try to enter the facility as quietly as possible. There will be ushers present to greet you and help you to the appropriate seat.
When to visit
Immediately upon learning of a death, it is appropriate for family and close friends to go to the home of the bereaved to offer sympathy and support. This can be a very overwhelming time for a family. Offering to assist with child care, food preparation, receiving visitors, or service preparations can provide immense comfort during this difficult process.
The funeral home can be a comfortable place to visit the family to offer your condolences, as they are prepared for visitors at these services.
Flowers
Sending flowers is a wonderful way to express your sympathy to the family of the deceased, and can bring comfort in a difficult time. Flowers are a meaningful gift that can be enjoyed during and after the funeral service.
Floral arrangements and plants can be sent to the funeral home to be present at services, or sent to the home of the family directly.
What not to say
Try not to give comments that minimize the loss, such as "It's probably for the best, because he was suffering too much," or "I've been in your shoes myself." These will not provide comfort to the bereaved
Wait for the family to discuss the cause of death. Do not bring it up yourself.
Keep the line moving
Visitations can be very emotional, especially when speaking with the family of the deceased. If there is a line to speak with the bereaved and view the casket, be conscious of keeping the line moving. After passing through the line, be sure to stand to the side to continue conversation, or allow the family member to continue to greet guests. The family will often be more available to speak following the conclusion of the service.
Mobile phone use
Smart phones should be turned off or silenced completely during the service. Checking your phone is noticeable and is a distraction to those who are trying to pay their respects. If you must return a message or receive a call, exit the service quietly.
Children
Should I bring a child to a Funeral? There is no right or wrong answer to this question. We each know our own child bestand know their level of understanding. Parents can use this opportunity to leadwith confidence; children do not have any preconceived notions about death, sothis first experience is monumental in shaping how they will approach deaththroughout their lives. It is important that during the service they havesomeone with them to answer questions and to comfort them if needed. If youdecide that attending the funeral is not appropriate for your child, let thembe involved by writing a letter or drawing a picture that can be placed withthe deceased.
Gifts
This can be a very draining time for a family. The gift of food is a kind gesture that the family will deeply appreciate and help alleviate the stress of funeral planning and mourning.
Remembering children in the family is a thoughtful gesture, as this is often a difficult time for them as well. A small gift like a stuffed animal or a book is best.
Time is precious. Helping with household tasks ease the family's burden. Caring for pets, driving children to school, running errands, or helping around the house are wonderful ways to help the family.
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