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Bereavement

My neighbor has died

(53 Posts)
Nannashirlz Wed 20-Mar-24 11:45:03

My question is I only moved into my home five months ago and it’s my neighbors funeral today should I stay inside or stand at the door in respect or would that look like a nosey neighbor. I feel like I should stand outside with my head lowered

MissAdventure Wed 20-Mar-24 11:47:31

I'd stand outside.
It's just a mark of respect for the ending of someone's life, and I don't think it seems nosy.

Dee1012 Wed 20-Mar-24 11:49:41

Personally, I'd stay inside unless I'd had a relationship with them. It's a lovely gesture to offer respect but given the time frame, it could possibly be misconstrued.

Smileless2012 Wed 20-Mar-24 11:53:03

I think standing outside with your head bowed is a respectful gesture.

nanaK54 Wed 20-Mar-24 11:53:40

I agree, such a respectful thing to do

Damdee Wed 20-Mar-24 11:54:18

I'm sure if you do what feels right for you, then it will be ok.

Hetty58 Wed 20-Mar-24 11:55:54

Nannashirlz, either - whatever you feel comfortable doing, as I'm sure the family won't have expectations.

MissAdventure Wed 20-Mar-24 11:55:58

My daughters funeral is mostly a blur to me, but I can remember being very touched to see people around my neighbourhood standing outside their homes.

Georgesgran Wed 20-Mar-24 12:18:44

On our small development, we all stand outside and applaud (I know some don’t agree with that) as the cortège passes.
I found it a very kind gesture when DH died during Covid.

Callistemon21 Wed 20-Mar-24 12:23:05

I really dislike the applauding that seems to happen at funerals now.

Shelflife Wed 20-Mar-24 12:24:05

Do stand outside , even though the family don't know you they will definitely appreciate the gesture and
the respect you give. They will remember.

MissAdventure Wed 20-Mar-24 12:24:49

Yes, if you stand outside please don't be the only one applauding, as that could be misconstrued!

BigBertha1 Wed 20-Mar-24 12:43:31

Yes indeed I would stand outside. We found it comforting when our parents died but no applauding ever at a funeral!

Astitchintime Wed 20-Mar-24 13:04:09

A lovely lady died some months ago on our street and most of the neighbours were at the end of their drives as the hearse departed. Some hadn't known her for very long at all but they still paid their respects.

HeavenLeigh Wed 20-Mar-24 13:04:16

I’ve never actually heard of applauding at a funeral that actually makes me feel uncomfortable . Is this a new thing?

MissAdventure Wed 20-Mar-24 13:08:20

Everything seems to warrant a round of applause these days.

Was it Diana's funeral that first saw people spontaneously clap as the coffin went by?

Grandma70s Wed 20-Mar-24 13:10:35

I’d stay indoors myself, and wouldn’t dream of applauding. Yes, it does seem to be a recent thing. Most odd.

Georgesgran Wed 20-Mar-24 13:13:15

It’s not that new Heaven.
Most think it started at Diana, POW’s funeral.
There was lots of applause from the crowds, as the late Queen’s hearse passed by.

Georgesgran Wed 20-Mar-24 13:13:54

Crossed post MissA

MissAdventure Wed 20-Mar-24 13:16:10

Well, I suppose the queen may have been an exception, deserving of a,show of appreciation for her long service to the country.

25Avalon Wed 20-Mar-24 13:17:29

Years ago you just drew the curtains. Much easier.

Baggs Wed 20-Mar-24 13:20:20

25Avalon

Years ago you just drew the curtains. Much easier.

👍

MissAdventure Wed 20-Mar-24 13:22:20

I can remember my mum drawing the curtains and threatening all sorts if anyone dared touch them.

Sasta Wed 20-Mar-24 13:25:04

Go outside, it’s a dignified way of showing respect for the person who died and their loved ones. I’ll always remember funerals I’ve been to in Ireland, absolutely everybody stops still and bows their head as the funeral procession goes through streets, those wearing hats remove them, it’s an incredibly touching and respectful gesture.

OurKid1 Wed 20-Mar-24 16:07:42

One of the few things I remember about my mum's funeral is that the gardener at the crematorium bowed his head as the hearse went past. So, yes - I would stand outside with your head bowed.