Do Women Serve As Pall Bearers At A Funeral?

At Gallagher Funeral Home, we sometimes have some clients asking us whether women can be pallbearers. This question is not an unusual one. In most instances, men are pallbearers, so it seems like the norm. However, there is no cultural or religious customs stating that women can't serve as pallbearers.

The only reason why they don't do this job is that they may not be strong enough to lift the casket, which can sometimes be quite heavy. Many elaborate wooden or metal caskets can easily weigh up to 300 pounds or more. However, if a physically able woman wants to be a pallbearer, there is no reason why she can't.

Pallbearers need to be emotionally and physically strong. Just as they need to manage to lift the casket, they should not break down while doing so. In short, there is no gender bias in the picture when it comes to who can be a pallbearer.

Can Family Members Be Pallbearers?

Again, traditionally, the deceased's family members do not act as pallbearers. In most cases, workmates, churchmates, colleagues, or neighbors serve as pallbearers. However, this concept is also changing now. We do see family members of the deceased also acting as pallbearers. Since caskets have six handles, there are six pallbearers.

If someone who is not strong enough wants to be a pallbearer, they can walk in front of the casket or behind it (they are called honorary pallbearers.) At Gallagher Funeral Home, our funeral director and staff are helpful and knowledgeable.

We will provide you with all the details you need about how to plan a service. For additional information, please call us at 318-640-1375. We offer customized funeral services at cost-effective pricing.