Etiquette of Tossing Flowers at a Funeral
Flower image by Dave from Fotolia.com
There are families who prefer to toss flowers into a grave (or place them atop the casket), since it's a gentler touch than throwing a handful of dirt atop the coffin. This practice occurs at the end of the graveside service. The deceased's spouse or long-time partner is the first to toss flowers into the grave.
There are families who prefer to toss flowers into a grave (or place them atop the casket), since it's a gentler touch than throwing a handful of dirt atop the coffin. This practice occurs at the end of the graveside service.
Immediate Family First
The deceased's spouse or long-time partner is the first to toss flowers into the grave. This individual should be followed by the deceased's offspring, then the deceased's siblings and their spouses and children, followed by relatives, then friends and other associates.
Follow the Family's Lead
Follow the example the deceased's immediate family sets for tossing the flowers. Watch where the family members stand at the graveside, how they drop in the flowers and how long they spend in silence at the grave before departing.
Common Courtesy
Your best etiquette guideline for tossing flowers is practicing common courtesy and respect. For example, don't make a big, dramatic "show" of dropping flowers in the ground. If the person ahead of you is very emotional and taking a long time to leave the grave, patiently wait your turn.
- There are families who prefer to toss flowers into a grave (or place them atop the casket), since it's a gentler touch than throwing a handful of dirt atop the coffin.
- The deceased's spouse or long-time partner is the first to toss flowers into the grave.
References
Writer Bio
Christa Titus is a dedicated journalism professional with over 10 years writing experience as a freelancer with a variety of publications that include "Billboard" and "Radio & Records." Her writing has also been syndicated to such media outlets as the "Washington Post," the "Seattle-Post Intelligencer," the Associated Press and Reuters. Titus earned a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Rowan College.