African American Funerals

by EJ White Funeral Fund Funeral Fund

African American Funerals

Each ethnic group has it’s own means of coping with the loss of a loved one. The rituals and rites practiced by each group are similar, but different from one community to the other. Some practices in rural southern communities are performed in larger northern metropolitan areas. Listed below are some of the practices of African American mourners.

When a death occurs

In years past, the deceased often was at home when he/she passed, the relative or caregiver would often wash the body and make it presentable for the arrival of close family and friends. Often, the invited guests would bring food and beverages to help feed the mourners. The sole objective of the invited guests was to console and provide support for the surviving family members. Today, most deaths occur when the deceased is in a hospice, hospital, or nursing home. Upon the death of an individual the staff will inform the next of kin or caregiver. A funeral home will be chosen and the remains will be taken to a mortuary in order to prepare him/her for burial.

The Wake

After the chosen funeral home finishes preparing the body a date and time is announced to invite family, friends and associates to come together and celebrate the life of the deceased. This gathering is called a wake. In most cases the wake is held at the mortuary or at a church the evening before the funeral. During the wake the attendees are allowed to tell stories about the departed and deliver their sympathy to the surviving members of the family. The wake is a time to try and uplift the spirits of the mourners. Sometimes the wake is a jovial gathering that lessens the sadness of the occasion. The day of the funeral service is time to say goodbye to the loved one.

The Funeral

The day of the funeral service is indeed one of the most difficult times for anyone who has lost a love one. On this day they will have to say their final goodbyes. The funeral director will escort the body to the church or place of worship. The church or chapel will be adorned with flowers or plants donators have sent or brought. The choir will sing hymns, the soloist might sing favorite songs and the preacher will give the eulogy. During the funeral service friends and relatives will be given the opportunity to give their favorite remembrances of the departed. After the funeral service the trip to the final resting place begins.

The Grave Site

After arriving at the gravesite the preacher or spokesperson will say a few words before the casket is lowered into the grave. During the oration the pastor will often say ashes to ashes and dust to dust which I believe to mean that we brought ourselves through the fires of life and now our bodies must return to dust. The mourners often join in and sprinkle dirt onto the casket and the grave handlers will entomb the casket. After the gravesite services, the mourners will be invited to participate in a dinner for the family.

Final Dinner

The dinner of remembrance is usually held at the church cafeteria. Here the grieving family will be treated to foods such as salads, fried chicken, okra, mashed potatoes, ham, and various cakes and pies.

Cost of the services

Often loved ones pass away without making arrangements prior to death. Money is needed right away to make arrangements. Families are without the means to provide the needed services. There is a way to reach out to friends and family members near and far. Funeralfund.com a crowdfunding site helps families and friends come together for funeral donations. Setting up a campaign is easy and free. It is a great place to leave a lasting memorial. Their photo and your fond memories of the deceased are sent out to family and friends through social media. The campaign lasts for 14 days to help you when you need it the most.