Attending a funeral is one of the best ways to show your respects to someone who has passed away. It’s natural to feel intimidated by these gatherings if you’ve never been to or have not been to one in awhile. While every service is unique, Cannon-Cleveland Funeral Directors says the general rules of etiquette remain the same. To put you at ease, this McDonough, GA, funeral home offers a guide to visitation and funeral service etiquette.

What to Know About Visitation & Funeral Service Etiquette

1. Attendance

If services are open to the public, it’s generally acceptable to attend visitations or funerals. When the service is private, you should only go if specifically invited by the family. In either situation, it’s critical to show up in a timely fashion.

Whether or not to bring a child to a funeral is usually up to the parent, unless specified otherwise in the event details. If the child is too young and may cause a disruption, it may be best to hire a babysitter. However, if they were close to the deceased and able to sit through a service, it is perfectly fine for them to come.

2. Attire

When choosing an outfit for a funeral service or visitation, dress conservatively and avoid wearing clothing that’s too casual or shows too much skin. Black is the standard color choice for apparel, but darker hues–such as navy blue and gray–are also acceptable. If you are a member of the military that is honoring a deceased veteran, you may wear your uniform.

3. Viewing

Whether or not you view the body during a visitation is up to you. If the casket is open, it is acceptable to spend a few moments with the deceased. However, if the presence of the body makes you feel uncomfortable, you aren’t required to view them.   

4. Condolences

During a visitation or service, you should greet loved ones of the deceased and express condolences in a brief manner. If you don’t know the family, introduce yourself and perhaps explain why the deceased was important to you. It is also common to send flowers to the family or the funeral home. A florist can help you select an arrangement that is appropriate for the event.

If you have questions about how to plan funeral services in a respectful manner, Cannon-Cleveland Funeral Directors offers their support. Preparing arrangements for more than seven decades, this McDonough, GA, funeral home understands how to create a memorable event that honors the life of your loved one. From casket selection to cremation services, these specialists cover every detail in a way that fits your budget and personal preferences. You can learn more about these resources online or by calling (770) 914-1414.