How Funeral Processions Work: An Overview

Funeral processions can be a somber experience, but they are also an important part of the grieving process. In this blog post, we will provide an overview of how funeral processions work. We will discuss the different aspects of a procession, from the order of vehicles to common etiquette. We hope that this information will help you understand this meaningful tradition and make sure your loved one’s funeral is a respectful and dignified event.

Funeral Procession Overview

What is a funeral procession? A funeral procession is a series of vehicles carrying mourners to the burial site. The most common type of vehicle in this procession is called a hearse, which carries the deceased person’s casket. Funeral processions are often led by police officers who help regulate traffic and ensure safety for everyone involved in the event.

While this process may be tough for the family, it is often an important part of the grieving process. A funeral service should allow mourners to say a final goodbye, and many people find comfort in being with others who are also sharing their grief over losing someone close to them.

Who Organizes the Procession

Next, it is important to understand who organizes a funeral procession. The funeral director is responsible for organizing the procession, but they will work closely with family members to make sure that everything goes smoothly on the day of the event.

The funeral director usually begins planning the procession by contacting the local police department and arranging for an escort. They will also work with the cemetery to make sure that the burial site is ready and accessible.

The cemetery staff may also be responsible for setting up a tent or other structures to shelter the mourners from the sun or rain.

Vehicles in a Procession

There are many vehicles in a procession. These include :

  • The hearse is sometimes called a funeral coach. This is the vehicle carrying the casket and will be at the front of the procession. The definition is, “An elaborate framework erected over a coffin or tomb to which memorial verses or epitaphs are attached.”

  • A lead car that carries flags or flowers to indicate it is part of a funeral procession. It may also carry family members who want to ride in their own cars instead of following behind the hearse.

  • The family car with immediate family members who wish to travel together from their home or hotel to the funeral site and back again afterward. Some families choose not to ride along with other mourners because they want privacy during this time, but many prefer traveling as part of a larger group in order for everyone else at home not to have to drive separately.

  • Shuttle buses for guests who need transportation from their homes or hotels to the funeral site and back again afterward (in some cases this may be provided by a bus company).

  • The police escort vehicle will lead with lights flashing so that other cars know what is going on and can clear out of the way.

  • Any other cars that are parts of the procession, such as a car carrying the organist or a car with friends or family members of the deceased who live far away and cannot attend the funeral.

The Service

The procession will lead to the funeral service, which is usually held in a church, synagogue, or other religious institution. The funeral director will work with the clergy to make sure that everything goes as planned.

After the service, the procession will return to the cemetery for the burial. This part of the process can be very emotional for family members and friends who have come to say their final goodbyes.

It’s important they have some private time together before everyone else starts arriving at the gravesite so that there isn’t too much chaos during this part of the day.

The burial itself is a relatively simple process in which mourners are encouraged not to speak aloud but instead reflect quietly on their loved one’s life. This can be done by reading a poem or listening to music while family members gather around the casket for one last photo before it is lowered into the ground and covered with dirt.

Common Etiquette for Attending a Service and Watching a Procession

These situations are tough and may be uncomfortable. Proper common etiquette for attending a service and watching a procession includes :

  • If you are attending the funeral service, dress in a way that is respectful of those who have lost their loved ones. This means no bright colors and nothing revealing or tight-fitting clothes.

  • Don’t bring children under 12 years old to the service unless they are part of immediate family members like grandchildren (or other close relatives).

  • If you are driving in the procession, try to arrive early so that you can park your car and join the rest of the mourners.

  • If you are not driving in the procession but want to watch it as it goes by, stand on the sidewalk (or another safe place) and remain quiet out of respect for those who are grieving.

  • DO NOT take photos or videos of the procession. This is extremely disrespectful and will make everyone very angry.

  • When the funeral service is over, wait until all of the cars have left before leaving yourself. If you do need to leave early for some reason, try to do so quietly and without making a scene.

Summary

In conclusion, a funeral procession is an important part of the grieving process. It allows family members and friends to say goodbye to their loved ones in a dignified way and provides closure for those who are left behind. By following these simple etiquette tips, you can make sure that you show your respect during this difficult time.

At Heritage Coach Company, we are experienced, trusted, and committed to exceeding every expectation. We have the finest new and reconditioned pre-owned vehicles. For more information, contact us at (610) 862-0560. we are located at 449 Old Reading Pike Pottstown, PA 19464. To look at vehicles available, check out our website at Heritagecoach.com