Open casket funerals can be overwhelming, especially for those who were close to the deceased. If you will be attending this type of funeral service in the near future, you may be wondering what to expect. Are there unwritten rules you must follow? Do you have to stand near the casket? Should you bring a small gift or remembrance to place inside or around the casket?
In this article, we cover all of these topics and more. Here’s how to prepare for an open casket funeral.
An open-casket funeral is a funeral service where the deceased’s body is displayed in a casket. This type of service is offered so loved ones and friends can say their final goodbyes in person. Typically, just the top half of the casket is open, showing only the person’s face, shoulders, and torso. Sometimes, the entire top of the casket is lifted to display the full body, but this is less common. Preferences for open casket funerals depend on the family and the condition of the body at the time they were laid to rest.
You may go to the viewing and expect to see the person looking like they were asleep, but know that they will likely look quite different than they did in life. While the funeral staff does their best to create a natural look, there are times when this is difficult. The deceased may not look exactly the same as you last saw them, but remember they are still the same person you once knew.
When attending an open casket funeral, there are a few things you should know about being a respectful guest. First, it is common to see people approach the casket and kneel in prayer. Give them space while they do this. When it’s your turn to approach the casket, do so with a neutral facial expression. Some funeral attendees don’t realize that cringing or looking at the body in disgust is actually offensive, especially to the deceased’s family.
Attendees should also refrain from hysterical crying. This is an important time to remain calm and collected. Another unspoken rule is to not attempt to reach in and embrace the body. Instead, either place your hand on their hand or cheek. Keep in mind though that their body will feel cold and hard to the touch. Lastly, put your cell phone and camera away. It is not appropriate to take photos (especially of the body) at an open casket funeral.
Saying your final farewells to a loved one is never easy. Sometimes, spoken words are not enough. Consider providing your loved one with a small remembrance or gift that can be placed in or around the casket. Items such as photographs, jewelry, and handwritten letters are often left inside caskets to be buried with the deceased.
Children may have a harder time comprehending an open casket funeral. Many of them have never seen a deceased body before. Talk to your children before you attend the service so they know what to expect. Explain to them that their loved one is no longer in pain and is resting peacefully now. Let them know that if they don’t feel comfortable being close to the body, it is perfectly ok to stand further away.
Whether your loved one’s death was unexpected or a result of a prolonged illness, know that there is no more pain involved after death. The deceased is completely at peace and no longer feeling the suffering that can come with earthly life.
Our family at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery has been serving families in the Arizona area for decades and can help walk you through any questions that you may have about funerals. Contact us today with questions at 480-832-2850 or via email to wecare@mvfuneralhome.com.
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