Cemetery Etiquette

A cemetery has been set apart as a place of remembrance, honor, and respect. In many religious and spiritual traditions, a cemetery is regarded as a sacred space. Although each cemetery may have its own set of rules, which are usually posted at the entrances, there are some common rules of etiquette that apply to nearly all cemeteries.

Gravesites and Memorial Structures

First and foremost, be aware of your surroundings when you walk through a cemetery. Avoid walking directly over a gravesite. Additionally, avoid touching memorial structures such as headstones, statues, and mausoleums. It is important to remember, these structures were chosen by the deceased or their loved ones and often carry deep significance.

Funerals in Progress

The graveside portion of a funeral service is often emotional and very difficult for loved ones. Grief and mourning is an exceedingly personal experience. At Mountain View Funeral Home, we work hard to create a space in which families and friends can express and experience their grief in their own manner. We feel honored to be entrusted with this responsibility and ask that you only approach the graveside services to which you have been invited.

Children

If you choose to bring children to a cemetery, take the time to talk to them about respecting the dead prior to arrival. It is natural for children to want to run and play in a large open space, but a cemetery is not a park or a playground and should not be treated as such. Please supervise any children at all times when on the cemetery grounds.

Keep it Clean

One of the simplest ways to show respect for the dead is refrain from littering. Please take any trash out with you, rather than disposing of it on the grounds. This includes cigarette butts.

Regardless of your personal beliefs, efforts should be taken to adhere to proper etiquette when you visit a cemetery, whether you are there for a funeral or a visit. Treat each gravesite or memorial as though it belonged to someone you loved.  If you have any questions about cemetery etiquette, feel free to contact us. At Mountain View Funeral Home, we are here to help you and your family with all aspects of funeral care.