Is it more appropriate to go to visitation or funeral?
Yes, you should attend the visitation and the funeral of an aunt, uncle, or cousin. Whether you were close to the extended family member or not, this is your time to support your family.
What is the difference between a viewing and a visitation?
Frequently the viewing is done prior to a traditional funeral service and guests are invited to come to the service early in order to view the deceased. Visitation services are times when the family makes itself available to friends other family members who wish to express their sympathy directly.
How do you say you have to attend a funeral?
A few words you can say include:
- “I was so sorry to learn about your loss.”
- “I’ll be thinking of you today.”
- “You’re in my thoughts and prayers today.”
- “I’m so sorry you’re going through this.”
- “Don’t worry about work.
- “I’m here if you ever need to talk.”
- “I’m really sorry.”
How long do you stay at a viewing?
There is no requirement for how long you should stay at a visitation. The length of your visit depends more on how well you know the family and how long it takes to offer your condolences and speak to other visitors. Many people stay a short time, about 15 minutes, which can be long enough to extend your sympathies.
What should I say at a viewing?
When attending a visitation, here are examples of what you can say to the family:
- My condolences.
- I’m really sorry you’re going through this.
- Your mom was a wonderful woman.
- You loved him/her well.
- I’m thinking of your family during this difficult time.
Is it appropriate to go to both the Visitation and the funeral?
The funeral is typically reserved for family and those especially close to the family of the deceased. If you are not sure if you are close enough to the family to attend the funeral, it may be wise not to assume you are welcome. The key to “paying your respects” is to make sure you are indeed being respectful.
Is it OK to attend a funeral of a public figure?
The deceased is a public figure in whom you have an interest and the services are open to the public. Your attendance at the service would be disruptive or distracting to any member of the immediate family. Your attendance at the service would be upsetting to any member of the immediate family.
When to go to a funeral or memorial service?
A funeral or memorial service is a time when you should put your own needs aside and be there for those closest to the deceased. The deceased is a close friend or family member. The bereaved is a close friend or family member. You knew the person (perhaps not well) and would like to pay your respects to the family.
Do you go to the funeral of a friend or family member?
The deceased is a close friend or family member. If you are close to the deceased then, by all means, attend the funeral. If there are extenuating circumstances and you are having difficulty deciding, talk it over with a friend or family member. There may be an appropriate way to express your condolences that doesn’t include attending.