What Is Proper Western Funeral Etiquette?

There are at least 2.4 million funerals that occur in the United States every year. Due to this startlingly high number, you’ll likely attend one to two funerals each year of your adult life.

Attending a funeral is an upsetting and often overwhelming time. Not only are you personally grieving the loss of a loved one, but you need to carry this grief with you into a public setting.

It’s essential to understand funeral etiquette beforehand to ensure you reflect the respect and honor that your loved one and fellow bereaved deserves. Please keep reading for everything you need to know about proper funeral behavior to prepare yourself for this regrettable event.

Arrive on Time

It is unacceptable to show up late to a funeral.

It’s your responsibility to arrive on time. Take into account any unforeseen delays that may arise and leave yourself plenty of extra time to get to the location. Being late demonstrates selfishness and a lack of respect for your loved one and the other people attending the funeral.

If there’ll be a funeral procession, it’s critical to leave extra time to park your car accordingly. What is a funeral procession? Click the link for everything you need to know.

If you arrive late, be as quiet as possible and wait for an appropriate break in the service before entering the room and taking a seat.

Turn off Your Phone

When understanding what not to do at a funeral, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is to leave your cellphone on.

Your best option is to leave your phone at home or in your car. If you have to bring it inside, make a conscious effort to either turn your phone on silent or shut it off altogether.

Wear the Proper Attire

For western cultures, the proper color to wear at a funeral is black, especially for the immediate family. While black clothing isn’t required, avoid bright colors and prints. Choose an outfit that’s subdued, conservative, doesn’t show much skin, and draws little attention.

Send Messages of Sympathy

It can be challenging to know what to say to a spouse, child, parent, or immediate family member after someone passes away. Rather than calling or reaching out in person, it’s better to send a message of sympathy, either by fax, email, or regular mail.

Be kind and genuine with your words. Offer the family the details of a fond memory or funny story. Share how their loved one touched your life and how you will greatly miss them.

Proper Funeral Etiquette: What To Do at a Funeral

Attending a funeral is an upsetting and stressful time. While dealing with your own emotions and grief, you also need to demonstrate respect and sympathy toward others affected by the loss.

Understanding proper funeral etiquette beforehand allows you the space to accept your grief and sorrow while showing support for the ones who need it most.

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