Funeral Etiquette 101

At Simply Cremations & Memorial Services, we have seen people make embarrassing faux pas because they are uncomfortable or unaware of funeral etiquette. 

Funeral Etiquette

People can get a little on edge at funerals, mainly if they have never been to one before. Many people there may be grieving and hurting, so the atmosphere could be tense. Here are some suggestions that could help you out:

1. Wear The Right Attire

Dress formally or in clothes that don't call too much attention to yourself at all times. Dresses in dark colours, like black or dark grey, are appropriate for business settings and client meetings. The dress code for men calls for a black suit, white shirt, and a plain tie. Don't wear anything too bright or too revealing to the funeral. In the same vein, funerals are not the occasions to show up in shorts, T-shirts, or denim. Kids of all ages need to show respect by dressing formally.

2. Always Arrive On Time

Anyone planning to attend the funeral should arrive fifteen minutes before the start time. If you don't want to be late, you should account for traffic or other potential delays when you leave. If you are running late, it is best to enter quietly and sit in the back of the funeral home. Most people will understand if you have to explain why you were late, but it's still polite to apologize if necessary.

3. Don’t Answer/Make Calls

It is respectful to turn off or silence your phone during the funeral. Even if you leave the funeral home to take a call, you should still avoid doing so as it shows a lack of respect for the deceased. You can always follow up with a phone call or give people advance notice. Neither should you send nor read messages at the funeral. The phone should never be out of your pocket.

For more information about funeral etiquette 101, contact us at Simply Cremations and speak to one of our experts.