9 Things Brits Would Find Strange About an Ordinary American Funeral

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When you think about funerals, you might picture a somber gathering that follows a set pattern. But if you’re British and you find yourself at an American funeral, you might see some things that seem a bit unusual. From big car processions to food-filled gatherings post-service, American funerals can be quite different from what you’re used to back in the UK. Let’s explore some unique American funeral traditions that might catch you by surprise.

1. Open-casket viewings are more common in some communities

In many parts of the US, it’s not uncommon to walk into a funeral and see an open casket. This allows family and friends to see the deceased one last time and say their final goodbyes in a very personal way. This practice might seem a bit jarring if you’re not used to it, but for many American families, it’s a significant part of the grieving process. The idea here is about closure and giving loved ones a chance to connect with the reality of their loss.

2. A visitation may happen before the funeral

Often the day before the funeral, there’s something called a visitation, and it’s exactly what it sounds like. Family, friends, and acquaintances come together to remember the deceased, usually in a more casual setting than the funeral itself. It’s a time for sharing stories, offering comfort, and even some laughter amidst the sadness. This kind of gathering can help people start processing their grief with the support of a community.

3. Embalming is more familiar to many American families

Embalming, a method to preserve the body of the deceased, is quite familiar and widely practiced in the United States, especially when there’s an open-casket viewing involved. This process helps in keeping the body presentable for loved ones to say their goodbyes. While the concept might be a bit unusual or even unsettling to some, it’s a deeply ingrained part of American funeral traditions.

4. Funeral homes can host much of the ceremony

Unlike some places where ceremonies might move from homes to religious places, in the US, a lot of the time everything happens at the funeral home. This includes everything from the viewing or visitation to the service itself. This can make the process seem a bit more formal and organized, with the funeral director helping to guide the grieving family through the process.

5. Long processions of cars can travel to the cemetery

If you see a long line of cars following each other with their headlights on during the day, chances are you’re witnessing a funeral procession. This is a way to escort the deceased and the grieving family from the funeral home or church to the cemetery. It’s a sign of respect and solidarity, and often, traffic rules allow these processions to pass through unimpeded.

6. Police may sometimes help funeral processions through traffic

It’s not unusual in many parts of the US for police to help manage traffic for funeral processions. This ensures that the procession can stay together and move smoothly through traffic lights and intersections, providing a seamless journey to the cemetery. This is a respect and honor offered to the deceased and their families during a difficult time.

7. Burial traditions vary considerably by region and religion

The United States is a melting pot of cultures and religions, and this diversity is reflected in burial traditions. From the type of coffins used to the rituals performed at graveside, there’s a vast variety of practices. Some might prefer a very solemn and traditional burial, while others might opt for something more unique, like a celebration of life with music and stories.

8. Memorial services may happen separately from the burial

Sometimes, the memorial service, which is a ceremony to honor the deceased, can happen at a different time from the burial or cremation. This allows people who couldn’t attend the funeral a chance to come together and remember the deceased. It’s a flexible approach that can make it easier for more people to pay their respects.

9. Families may receive large amounts of prepared food from their community

One heartwarming tradition is the giving of food to the bereaved family’s home. Neighbors and friends often prepare and bring dishes to the family’s house, helping to feed visitors and lessen the daily burdens on the family during mourning. This shows a strong sense of community support and care in times of loss.