As with any part of culture, funeral home accepted behavior and dress have changed over the years. However, just because times change doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be knowledgeable about accepted customs. Funeral homes in Jacksonville, FL are ritualized and somber places that call for respect, and it’s important to know what personal, religious, or cultural considerations you need to make for the deceased’s family and friends.
Be sure to do things like offer sympathy. It’s almost always appropriate to offer sympathy to the deceased’s friends and family. Oftentimes a simple “I’m sorry for your loss” is all you need. Always remember to be respectful, but feel free to offer your own personalized condolences. Find out the gift situation, too. Its tradition to bring some sort of gift for the deceased or the family. Usually flowers are the best choice, but sometimes the family requests charitable donations in lieu of flowers. Always be sure to include a note or a signature so the knows who the gift is from.
What about dress code? Black is the classic funeral color, but sometimes the event or the family calls for a different look. If you’re unable to discover the family’s wishes, dress conservatively and avoid bright colors. Don’t forget to sign the book and reach out. The registry book may seem silly, but it can be an important way for the family to look back and enjoy who came to honor their passed love one. Include your name and relationship to the deceased for easy identification in the future. Don’t be afraid to reach out to the family after the funeral. A simple phone call may go a long way in comforting them in their difficult time.
Sometimes it’s easier and clearer to list unacceptable or unnecessary funeral home behavior. Things to avoid include:
- Overstaying Your Welcome: Don’t feel like you have to stick around the funeral home for too long. Sometimes a quick condolence is enough.
- Stifle Your Emotions: Its ok to laugh and cry at a funeral home. The deceased’s life was filled with emotion, so it makes sense for his or her funeral to be too.
- Overactive Children: Loud or disturbing children have no place in a funeral home. It’s all right to bring the kids if they understand how to be respectful, but if not, leave them with a sitter.
- Ringing Cell phones: Turn your phone to silent! Also, never check your messages during the funeral service. It can wait.
- Avoid the Family or Receiving Line: A quick hug, hello, or “sorry for your loss” goes a long way with a grieving family. Never skip the receiving line, even if it’s long.
Funeral homes are tricky places to navigate! The team at Schnauss North East Florida Funeral Home and Cremation Services is happy to help you with any information and guidance you may need when it comes to Jacksonville, FL funeral homes. Pay us a visit give us a call to learn more.
