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Being a Pallbearer

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If you have been asked to be a pallbearer at a funeral service, you may be wondering about the process and what is expected of you. Most people have never participated in this manner at a funeral, so it can be worrisome. If you have questions or you are not sure about the etiquette of the process, here are some things that funeral homes in Chester, VA recommend you keep in mind.

You need to really consider whether you can do the task of being a pallbearer. If you are someone who is really suffering from the loss and are not sure whether you will be in the right emotional shape to function as pallbearer, it is vital that you let the family know as soon as possible. This will allow them to find someone else to serve as pallbearer. You will not be insulating or offending them by being honest. In fact, they will appreciate that you told them ahead of time.

For the service, you will need to dress appropriately. Usually, this means wearing something conservative and somber. Choose darker colors and outfits that do not have distracting patterns that could bother the other guests. Women tend to wear skirts or dresses and men stick to suits. Be sure that the shoes you wear are ones you are comfortable in and that you have no trouble waking in. A good rule is to wear something that you would wear to a religious service.

The funeral director will give you and the other pallbearers instructions before the service begins. This means that you should be there early so that you do not have any questions. If you do have any doubts about any of the instructions, reach out to the funeral home director before the service begins to have them cleared up. It is vital that you are not late, since this can offend the family and it can cause issues in the service itself. If you are someone who is usually late, make a decided effort to get there on time.

You may be asked to sit in one particular place with the rest of the pallbearers for the service. Some families prefer this, since it can mean the service is speedier and more organized. Not all of them do, however, so you may want to ask them about this when you arrive for the service.

By informing yourself about what pallbearers do during the service and what is expected of them, you will be less anxious and you will be able to get the closure you want from the service. Be sure to dress correctly and to arrive one time so that you can be ready to hear the instructions from the funeral director. To learn more, you can turn to a Chester, VA funeral home like us at Morrissett Funeral and Cremation Service. We can answer all of your questions and ensure that you feel comfortable being a pallbearer. Stop by our location at 6500 Iron Bridge Rd Richmond, VA 23234 or call us today at (804) 275-7828.

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