Attending a Funeral
A little empathy goes a long way, long after the funeral itself.
Richie Frieman
If you are going to a funeral, arrive on time and make sure that your mobile phone or pager is turned off. Dress is traditionally black or charcoal, but other dark and muted colors may be acceptable (such as navy blue or forest green). The degree of formality will depend on where you are, but err on the conservative side if you are unsure.
After the funeral, friends and family members are sometimes invited over to the house of the deceased or of a close relative for a meal. If you are unable to go, stop by later in the week for a condolence call. Just phone ahead to find out if it is a good time to visit.
Most importantly, remember that the funeral is just one day, whereas the spouse and family members of the deceased have to live with their loss long after the event is over and everyone has gone home. So do your best to remember them on holidays, important occasions, and really anytime in between. Keep in touch, invite them to dinner, see how they are doing, give them a call, just because. Knowing that you are reaching out and available will help them through a difficult time.