When Is It Okay to Skip a Funeral Service?

Most people know that attending the service of a loved one is something that can offer closure and that can help the process of healing. There are some instances, however, when attending the service might not be possible or might not be appropriate. Here are some examples of this those directors of funeral homes in Biloxi, MS want you to know about so that you can decide whether to attend or not.

If you do not see the service announced anywhere and know that only a select number of people are invited, you do not want to just show up. Many times, families prefer to have a private service and you do not want to intrude. If you see the service announced in obituaries or on social media, then it probably is open to everyone, but if not, then you may want to reach out to someone who knows the family well. It is better to ask than to just show up.

If the service is somewhere that would require you to travel, you can choose not to go. If the expense is too great or if you are not healthy enough to travel, you may want to send your condolences but not feel like you have to go to the service. Be sure to let the family of the deceased know why you are not able to go, and maybe send them a care package or flowers of the service.

Another reason that to skip a service is if you are ill. If it is not safe for you to go to the service, everyone will understand. This goes for people who have chronic illnesses that make it difficult to sit for a long period of time or similar issues. Let the family know and send them a token of your sympathy in the form of flowers or even a donation in the deceased person’s name.

If you have young children and cannot make arrangements for someone to watch them, it is also acceptable to not attend a service. Young children will have a hard time sitting through a service and they can get fussy and bother other people. Avoid this issue by not attending the service.

These are all valid reasons to not attend the funeral service of a loved one. People will understand if you cannot go and you do not need to worry about anyone getting offended. Be sure to let the family know so they do not expect you and to make your excuses. If you want to know more about funerary etiquette or about arrangements, you can reach out to a Biloxi, MS funeral home like us at Riemann Family Funeral Homes. We have years of experience helping people lay their loved ones to rest and we can help you, too. Stop by one of our locations or call us right now to speak with an expert about all of the services we can offer.