I am Next in Line, What do I Say?

Funerals are often hard for everyone who attends. After all, you knew the deceased in one way or another. However, one of the most common fears about attending the funeral is what do you say to the family? In the event that you are next in line at the viewing of the casket and the body, what do you say to the immediate family members who are standing there?

First off, know that by being there you are showing just how much the deceased meant to you. Thus, there may be occasions in which there is nothing for you to say, and instead give the person standing in the line a hug or share a fond memory of the deceased. However, if you are still at a loss as to what to say, here a few guidelines that you can utilize:

• If the immediate family did not know you, introduce yourself. If you worked with the deceased state this. Always tell the person how you are connected to the deceased if you are unfamiliar with the immediate family.
   
• Always use the deceased person’s name when talking with the family, as this just imprints that you cared for this person.
   
• Express your sympathy. If you know the connection that the person has to the deceased, be sure to note that. Tell them how sorry you are about their loss, or the like.
   
• An optional method, is to share a memory or story about the person that means a lot to you. Many loved ones cherish these stories as it is a way to feel closer to the deceased.

Words are hard to find in these moments of grief. We understand this here at Tindall Funeral Home. And we hope that this can give you a better idea of what you could say. 

If you have any suggestions for people on what to say while in line to see the next of kin and family, please leave them in the comments below.