Should I or Shouldn't I Go To A Funeral

Sometimes it isn't easy to determine whether you should attend a funeral or not. These events are formal, require a certain level of respect, and most attendees are in a fragile emotional state. At Willowbrook Cemetery, we have seen people regret attending or not attending a funeral. Here's a look some tips that can make you make the right decision:

Why You Should Attend the Funeral

People don't issue invitations to a funeral but may express a desire for your presence there. If a family member issues such an invitation, it is best to accept and attend. Declining the invite may offend the family and cause even more distress.

Even if you're not personally connected to the deceased individual, you may want to attend just to support a grieving friend. You may even bring a friend along as additional support. 

Why Shouldn't You Attend a Funeral?

Respect the family's privacy if they have made the funeral service a family-only event. Sometimes this is necessary to keep unwanted guests away. Many celebrity funerals are restricted to ensure only people closest to the deceased attend.

It is also important to consider whether your presence will upset people. If you have a bad relationship with the deceased's family, it may be a better idea to not attend a funeral. Causing additional distress to the family members will only damage your relationship with them.

Think about how you will feel about attending or not attending a funeral a year down the line. If you think that you won't regret skipping the service, don't attend. You can always visit the person's grace if you want to say goodbye.

If you want to know more or need to book a service, just give us at Willowbrook Cemetery a call on 203 222 8646 or contact us through our online form.