3 Funeral Etiquette Tips You Need to Know

Funerals are solemn and serious affairs and are attended by several grieving people. It’s important to be respectful and considerate while attending the service. People who haven’t attended a funeral before often struggle and make mistakes. Here are some funeral etiquette tips that can help you get through the event without causing any offense.

1. Wear Something Semi-Formal and Respectable

It’s not a good idea to wear jeans and t-shirt to a funeral. Attendees should also avoid bright and loud colors like reds, blues, yellows, and bright pinks as they’re not suitable for such ceremonies. Blacks and dark blues are the best choice for funerals. Men should wear formals and women should wear modest dresses.

2. Leave Early and Arrive Early

Attendees should reach the funeral home at least 10 minutes before the service time. Consider the traffic conditions and account for unexpected delays on the road before you decide when you need to leave. If being late is unavoidable, make sure you’re as quiet as possible while entering the funeral home. Don’t speak with anyone and find a place at the back so no one is disturbed during the service.

3. Switch Off Your Phone

Phone calls or messages can disrupt the solemn atmosphere and attending to them during the ceremony is disrespectful. Keep the phone on silent or switch it off before entering the funeral home. Don’t attend to any calls until the service is over as that will appear disrespectful as well. Even stepping out to accept calls can cause offense so it’s a good idea to defer the calls until the ceremony is over.  

If you want to know more about funerals or want to plan one, don’t hesitate to call us at Thomas M. Gallagher Funeral Home for more information.