Funeral etiquette

What to wear, what to say.

Simple guidance for visitations, services and gatherings, so you can focus on the family.

Dark or muted, neat clothing is always right. Some families ask for a favorite color: follow the obituary.

"I'm so sorry" is enough. A short memory of the person means more than any perfect words.

A visitation is a time to stop by and greet the family. The service is the ceremony itself. Go to either, or both.

Flowers are welcome unless the obituary asks for donations "in lieu of flowers".

Children are welcome. Tell them gently what they will see, and let them choose.

Silence your phone. Watching a webcast? A short message to the family afterwards means a lot.