After a friend experiences a loss, it’s difficult to find an appropriate way to express your emotions and support for their family. While they’re occupied planning the memorial service and making other arrangements, you might wonder how you can help. The tips below will guide you in paying respects and doing your part to help your grieving friend.

How Can You Pay Respects to a Grieving Friend?

1. Attend the Funeral

Arrive at least 15 minutes before the funeral service starts. Make sure you’re dressed appropriately—suits for men and modest dresses or pants for women.

If the family is lined up for greetings, you may express your condolences to them before the service begins. Based on your relationship to individual family members, and your knowledge of their personalities, decide on whether a hug or handshake is most appropriate. If there is a long line, be sure to keep the condolences brief.

If there isn’t an opportunity to express condolences prior to the service, wait until after the service when the family gathers by the door to thank attendees. 

2. Send the Family a Flower Arrangement

Send an arrangement or wreath to the funeral home or the family’s house. If you’re sending one from a long distance, contact a florist near the family and arrange delivery.

Speak with the florist about which bouquet will reflect your sentiments. Lilies represent innocence, carnations represent love and remembrance, and gladiolas represent strength and moral integrity.

3. Follow Up With the Family

After funeral services are over, show the family your thoughts are still with them by following up with a phone call or email. Depending on their needs, you might offer to pick up their kids from school, run errands such as buying groceries, or even do their yard work. If you’re close to the family, you might simply drop by with prepared food.

When it comes to offering emotional support, try to avoid any phrases that might dismiss their experience, such as “There are better days ahead.” Instead, be a listener. If it’s appropriate, share a fond memory of the deceased and reassure them that you’re available to speak with them at any time.

Following a loved one’s passing, you can rely on support from Leo M. Bean And Sons Funeral Home in Rochester, NY. For over 40 years, this funeral home has helped families plan the perfect funeral or memorial service for lost loved ones. For a funeral home that treats you like family and works with you to create a beautiful farewell, call (585) 426-7830. Browse their funeral services online.