How to Support a Family During a Funeral
Attending a funeral or visitation can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure what to say or do. A few simple guidelines can help you offer comfort and show respect while supporting the grieving family.
When Should I Visit?
Visiting the family at home after a death is thoughtful, but the funeral home is often the best place to offer condolences. If you want to provide additional support before the services, consider practical ways to help:
- Bring meals or household necessities.
- Assist with childcare.
- Run errands or help with chores.
Small gestures like these can provide real comfort to a family during a difficult time.
What Should I Say?
It’s natural to wonder what words are appropriate. While no words can fully express the depth of a loss, offering a few kind and sincere words shows that you care. Avoid comments like, “They’re in a better place.” Focus on offering compassion and support.
Where Should I Sit?
At both funerals and visitations, the first rows of seats are typically reserved for close family. If you are a friend or extended family member, it’s respectful to sit behind the reserved seating.
What Should I Do?
- Arrive on time to show respect.
- Enter quietly and speak briefly to family members to offer condolences before taking your seat.
- Turn off or silence cellphones. If you must take a call, step outside or into another room.
What About Children?
Whether children should attend depends on their age, behavior and relationship to the deceased. If you bring a child, prepare them by explaining what will happen during the service and how they should behave.