I'm 15 and I've never really experienced a death of a loved one, and I've never been to a funeral home for a visitation. My friend's dad died and I am going tonight to the visitation. I don't want to seem awkward or stupid about it. What does one do exactly at a visitation other than express your condolences to the family?
2007-01-11 07:19:41 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Family & Relationships ➔ Other - Family & Relationships
It'll feel awkward no matter what. You don't have to wear black, but wear somber colors, and nothing showy, or that will stand out. At this time of year, a nice sweater will do.
Basically, when you go in, you'll sign the visitation book, go up to the family, and say, "I'm so sorry for your loss." It's very formulaic and everyone will say it, but it's just what you do. If you and/or your family are religious, you may say a prayer at the casket (stand around and watch other people to see what they do - my experiences have been mostly at Catholic funeral homes.)
Then you stand around with your family and feel awkward. You can talk with people like you're at a family gathering - bring up other topics with your friend, if she seems like she needs to talk about something else.
2007-01-11 07:27:45 · answer #1 · answered by Cobalt 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That's all you do - offer condolences and support to the family and your friend. Bring a packet of tissue for your friend it will be the best thing she gets the Kleenex boxes are always they scratchy hospital type and a nice soft tissue is really appreciated. Also if your families are very close you could ask what to bring to the wake if they say nothing then send a basket of fruit to their home - if your parents will - if not ask your mom to take you to the store and make a nice basket with treats (get the basket cheap at a thrift store and dress it up) it should cost you about 10 bucks or so but will really show you care. If you are broke write a letter about the nice things you remember about her dad and give it to her - it will be really valuable later. Good Luck!
2007-01-11 15:28:13 · answer #2 · answered by Walking on Sunshine 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You sign the guest book so that the family will know you were there and if any of the family is there at the time you are you extend your condolences to them. You walk in view the body and that is pretty much it. Simple.
2007-01-11 15:23:43 · answer #3 · answered by Jewells 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That's about it. Everyone's a little akward at those things. I'm sure your friend will appreciate you showing up. Just tell your friend you are sorry for her loss. Sometimes there is a little service, but it's not too common. Just tell everyone how sorry you are and be there for your friend.
2007-01-11 15:25:36 · answer #4 · answered by leaptad 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just be there for the friend & family.It means alot just to be there while your friend is probably in shock to have lost her father.Bless you all.
2007-01-11 15:23:55 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
That's pretty much it.
2007-01-11 15:24:34 · answer #6 · answered by melody g 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋