Funeral Etiquette | Lloyd Edward Memorial
Comfort with Confidence
When someone you care about passes away, your natural instinct is to offer love, support, and presence—but sometimes, you’re unsure what to say or how to act. At Lloyd Edward Memorial, we understand these feelings and offer this guide to funeral etiquette so you can show your respects with confidence and grace.
What to Say
Finding the right words can be difficult. Start by simply offering your condolences: “I’m so sorry for your loss.” If you feel comfortable, share a warm memory or story about the deceased—celebrating their life helps comfort the family during a time of sadness.
Example: “I was heartbroken to hear of Mary’s passing. She brought so much joy to everyone she met.”
What Not to Say
Avoid statements that diminish the loss or shift focus:
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“It’s for the best.”
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“He’s in a better place now.”
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“I know exactly how you feel.”
Also, allow the family to bring up the cause of death—do not ask or speculate.
What to Wear
A funeral or memorial service is a solemn occasion. Dress conservatively in dark, muted colors like navy, gray, or black.
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Men: Suit or dress pants with a jacket and tie
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Women: Dress, skirt, or suit in modest, subdued styles
Keep jewelry minimal and respectful.
Arriving at the Service
Please plan to arrive on time and enter quietly. If ushers are present, they’ll guide you to a seat. If not:
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The first few rows are typically reserved for immediate family and close friends
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Acquaintances and coworkers should seat themselves toward the middle or back
When to Visit the Family
Once you learn of the passing, it’s appropriate for close friends and family to reach out or visit the bereaved. Your presence and assistance can mean everything in those early days.
Offering help with child care, meals, errands, or answering phones is a meaningful way to show support.
For formal condolences, the funeral home is the most appropriate setting to connect with the family.
Flowers
Flowers offer a visual tribute of love and remembrance. Sending an arrangement to the funeral home or directly to the family’s home is a comforting gesture.
Floral gifts express support when words are difficult to find—and they serve as a lasting reminder of love in the days that follow.
Keep the Line Moving
During visitations, emotions can run high. If there’s a line to view the casket or speak with the family:
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Share your condolences, then step aside
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Continue your conversation away from the line
The family will often have more time for connection after the formal service concludes.
Mobile Phone Use
Out of respect, please silence or power off your phone during any service or gathering. If you must step away to take a call, exit the space quietly and discreetly.
Children at Services
Children can benefit from the chance to say goodbye—but they should never be forced to attend. If a child does attend:
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Explain what to expect ahead of time
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Provide comfort items, like a small toy or book
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Step out with them if they become restless
Thoughtful Gifts
Grieving families often have little time or energy for daily tasks. Thoughtful, practical gifts go a long way:
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Home-cooked meals or delivery service gift cards
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Help with household chores, errands, or child care
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Small gifts for grieving children (stuffed animals, memory books)
Acts of service speak volumes in times of grief.
A Final Thought
Your presence matters. Whether you attend the service, send flowers, or simply offer a kind word—what matters most is showing the family they are not alone.
Lloyd Edward Memorial is here to support you in honoring life with compassion and dignity.