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When a loved one passes away, pallbearers are tasked with carrying the coffin from the hearse to the burial site during the funeral service. The responsibility of transporting remains of the deceased to their final resting place is considered an honor, so think carefully about which individuals should handle the job. To help decide, below is a brief guide concerning how to choose pallbearers for funeral services.  

What You Should Consider When Selecting Pallbearers 

Relationship With the Deceased

Traditionally, pallbearers are family members or close friends of the deceased. Think about which people had strong emotional bonds with your loved one when determining who should carry their coffin during the funeral service. To ensure the weight of the vessel is completely supported, choose at least six people—typically, there are three handles on each side of a casket. You might need to add two more people if there are handles on the front and back.  

Stratford-Connecticut-funeral-servicesPhysical Abilities

From severe arthritis to poor mobility, physical limitations might make it difficult, or impossible, for some people to hold onto handles and carry the weight of the coffin. Choose people who are physically capable of handling the responsibility. Those that aren’t can serve as honorary pallbearers, which means they walk in front of or behind the coffin as it’s transported.

Emotional Strength

A funeral service can take an emotional toll on everyone in attendance. Factor this into the decision when choosing pallbearers. Those who lived with the deceased, including a spouse or children, for example, might be too overcome with grief to carry the coffin. Approach the topic with care when discussing with any potential pallbearer whether they feel emotionally ready for the task.

 

If you need help making funeral arrangements for a family member, the compassionate associates at Adzima Funeral Home are available to assist. For more than a century, the family-run funeral home has helped residents throughout Fairfield County, CT, create touching tributes to say final goodbyes to the dearly departed. The team also provides advice to help survivors cope with the loss. To schedule a funeral service consultation in Stratford or nearby areas, call (203) 375-2200. You can also visit the staff online to discover how they will help plan a funeral to honor the memory of your loved one, and follow them on Facebook for updated news. 

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