Etiquette Tips for Those Attending a Funeral Service in Westchester, IL

Being notified that someone you know has passed away often comes as a shock. It’s as if one day you’re telling funny jokes and having dinner, and the next day, they’re gone. Even if you didn’t know the person well, you still feel sad, and you immediately feel sad for the family of the individual who has died. Following a death, you might be invited to a viewing or visitation and a memorial service or funeral service. But many people are terrified that they may say or do something disrespectful at a funeral. If you are not sure how to act, but still want to be able to pay your respects, read on.

Here are a few important etiquette tips for those getting ready to attend a funeral service in Westchester, IL:

• Assume the mood will be solemn: Unless the invitation says it’s a celebration of life event, assume you will be attending a service with a generally solemn and somber mood. After all, this is a sad time, and there will be many different emotions emanating from family and friends in attendance.
• Dress appropriately: Dressing conservatively not only shows respect, but it’s also an expression of the general mood. Wear attire you might use in business or something simple and conservative—traditionally, a plain, dark color dress for women and a dark suit and tie for men. Avoid dressing in clothing that is flashy or bright; basically, stay away from anything you’d wear to a party or a dance club.
• Carefully consider taking children: Use your best judgment when deciding whether to take your children to a funeral, and do prepare them ahead of time. Consider leaving kids with a sitter if the service is for someone they didn’t know, if the child is likely to cause a distraction or if they are not old enough to understand what’s going on.
• Don’t arrive late: It’s better to arrive early than late to a funeral service in Westchester, IL. Plan to arrive at the service location—be it a church, funeral home or private residence—15 to 20 minutes prior to the start of the service. Assess the seating arrangement and speak quietly while the family arrives.
• Take a seat: Sit up near the front if you are a close friend or family member of the deceased; otherwise, choose a seat near the middle or in the back of the venue. Go ahead and view the open casket, but do little to draw attention to yourself should you arrive late to the service. In this event, enter quietly and sit down in the back row.
• Participate as much as possible: Some ceremonies are going to be centered around religion. Even if you are not religious, be respectful by participating in some religious aspects throughout the ceremony—like standing and kneeling, and bowing your head during prayers.

For the most compassionate funeral home staff around, look no further than Marik-Baken Funeral Services Ltd. We are experienced in helping families plan customized funeral services in Westchester, IL for their loved ones, and we are here to guide you, too. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Categorised in: Funeral Service

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