My neighbor has died

Stand outside with head bowed, as a mark of respect - that’s what I would do if you have only just moved to the area. I have been to a few funerals since moving here in 2008 🥲

No one here stands outside or stops or makes any attempt of any kind of acknowledgement

I think it depends where you live in a village or very small town or close community then probably people do

My Nan always drew the curtains too MissA but I don’t remember mum and dad doing it I wouldn’t know if any of my neighbours died

When I lived in the Far East the relatives used to pay people to walk behind the hearse weeping and wailing

I'm a bit confused. Is the body at their house? When are you standing outside and bowing? If it is a funeral, wouldn't the procession be from the funeral home to church or graveyard?

Sorry for ignorance, maybe you have different customs there. If it is a neighbour, I would go to the funeral or service.

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.

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.

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

25Avalon

Years ago you just drew the curtains. Much easier.

👍

Years ago you just drew the curtains. Much easier.

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

Crossed post MissA

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.

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

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?

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

I agree, such a respectful thing to do

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