When a beloved family members passes away, there are certain things that the community expects the grieving family to do. It’s part and parcel of tradition, doing various activities that make the death of a loved one an occasion for the community to come together. For some, it may be quite uncomfortable as they’re pretty emotional, but for many people, coming together shows the character of the deceased and how the community sees them.
Surviving family members may be designated to take care of funeral arrangements to give the deceased a proper send-off. Those in charge of the affairs must look for experienced industry leaders, such as the funeral directors Leeds, who can efficiently address various concerns related to the funeral and its attendant traditions.
Here are some essential funeral traditions that families must try to observe.
Funeral announcements
Once a person passes, it’s customary to announce their demise to the community through an obituary on a national or local daily. Announce the death through social media is quite acceptable nowadays. The statement typically includes the person’s funeral details, like the place and date of internment, so people can plan to attend the funeral service or at least send flowers as a sign of respect. Unless the family specifically requested an intimate service, people will find ways to show their love for the deceased.
Dress code
Traditions dictate to wear white or black to funerals as customary, and refrain from wearing garishly loud-coloured attire as some see it as a sign of disrespect. However, nowadays, the clothing standard has become more relaxed, and people come to funeral services wearing neutrals and other muted colours.
Funeral procession
A funeral procession is still integral to the ceremony. The procession is led by the hearse or a horse-drawn carriage where the casket is lodged, and it’s usually filled with flowers and other accessories. A vehicle carrying the immediate family follows the hearse. Although there might be no special treatment regarding traffic rules, funeral industry personnel will also liaise with the local authorities regarding the procession. Some even request police escorts to help the funeral procession along.
Once inside the cemetery, some people would insist on walking the casket to its final resting place. The pallbearers and the funeral director may lead the parade on foot so people can pay their last respects.
Funeral flowers
Funeral flowers signify many things for the grieving family. Most people express their condolences and well-wishes by sending funeral wreaths and flowers as a symbol of sympathy for the family. These flowers typically make the trip to the funeral plot, and families place them atop the grave to remember the departed.
Burial traditions
Some insist on throwing a fistful of soil onto the casket as it’s being lowered to the ground. Some family members would throw flowers or include personal items in the coffin.
Conclusion
Death is a sad but accepted fate. Funerals bring people together as part of the tradition and celebrate the deceased’s life.
