Funeral traditions can vary for different cultures, but they have also changed over time. Before the existence of funeral homes and graveyards, American families would care for their own dead and bury them in the family cemetery. Whitley’s Funeral Home in Kannapolis, NC, follows the tradition of honoring the family’s wishes. They know that dignified funerals and memorial services are a way to help the living with their grief. Here, their staff shares some insights on how funeral customs have changed.

3 Ways That Funerals Have Changed

1. Pre-Funeral Customs

When someone passes, the funeral home arranges the cremation or burial of the body within a few days or weeks. While a memorial service may be scheduled later to allow mourning family members to make the journey, the body is not laid out except for a short viewing. In the 1500s, a deceased person would sometimes be laid out for months. This was to ensure that they were not in a coma and to prevent burying someone alive.

2. Attire

Black is still the expected funeral attire today. However, in Victorian times, mourning clothes were complicated and consisted of full veils, dresses, and heavy cloaks. In fact, women were expected to wear mourning clothes for two years after their husbands died; even servants and children had to wear black for a specified length of time. European royalty followed different rules. While women also had to wear mourning clothes for a long time, the mourning color of royalty was white.

3. Preparing the Body

How we handle the body of the deceased hasn’t changed, as the passing of a person is always treated with dignity and respect. What happens to the body depends on the wishes of the family. If the family desires a viewing, then the funeral home will prepare the body. However, in ancient times, the wealthy would have their bodies embalmed and preserved. In England, this practice continued until the Protestant Reformation because people believed they had to prepare the body for a physical resurrection.

While funeral customs change over time, it’s the funeral home’s task to help you celebrate the life of your loved one. Whitley’s Funeral Home is there to assist you with the funeral arrangements, including a traditional burial, cremations, and video tributes. Give them a call anytime at (704) 933-2222, or visit the website to learn more about the services they offer.