5 Funeral Etiquette Tips You Need to Know

Funerals are difficult for everyone. The decedent’s family and friends are in deep mourning and can react negatively or feel pain at any perceived slight. It’s important to keep their feelings in mind and make sure you don’t do anything to offend them. At Franklin H. Rainear, we recommend the etiquette tips mentioned below:

1. Don’t be late

Try to arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes before the funeral is due to start because you don’t want to disrupt the ceremony. Arriving early gives you time to find your seat, settle in, and even converse with the grieving relatives for a while. If you’re late despite your best efforts to avoid it, don’t draw attention to yourself. Slip in quietly and find a seat in the back row.\

2. Dress carefully

Don’t wear casual jeans, t-shirts, short-skirts, and bright clothing. It’s generally acceptable to wear black and dress in formal clothes. Men should wear suits with white or black shirts and women should wear black dresses or suits.

3. Consider words carefully

Most people stumble over their words and don’t know how to offer condolences. It’s not uncommon for people to say something unintentionally hurtful. The best way to avoid this to keep it simple with an “I’m sorry for your loss and is there anything I can do to help.”

4. Switch off your mobile phone

Switch your mobile phone off or keep it on silent mode before you enter the funeral home. Don’t attend to any calls, reply to messages, or even excuse yourself to take a call unless there’s a real emergency.

If you want some help and assistance for arranging funerals for your departed loved ones, don’t hesitate to contact us at Franklin H. Rainear, Jr., Affordable Funeral Service & Cremation, LLC through our website or call (888) 213-4090.