Why Sending Flowers to a Funeral is Important (2024)

Flowers have been a vital part of burial rites for most of human history. In fact, humans have been using flowers in funeral rites for over 60,000 years. While ancient peoples did not usually have the intricate floral arrangements of today, the tradition still remains a major part of the funeral process. Sending a floral arrangement honors the dead, and shows sympathy to the family. Generally, flowers today are sent to show respect, sympathy, and love for the deceased. Above all, flowers are important to a wake or funeral because they make the mourners feel like the deceased was cared for by many people close to them.

Who Should Send Flowers?

Anyone could send flowers to a funeral, but some people don’t know if it is appropriate. Generally speaking, anyone could send flowers, but different types of arrangements are more appropriate than others, based on your relationship with the deceased. More on that in the next section. Usually, co-workers, club members, or groups of friends will often split a larger arrangement. Close family members will often get floral arrangements for the funeral service. If you are unable to attend the funeral, sending flowers in your stead is a common way to show your sympathy.

What Type of Floral Arrangement Should I Send?

Different floral arrangement types send a different message. For example, it is up to the spouse or immediate family to purchase a casket spray. For friends or more removed family, you can’t go wrong with a standing spray, wreath, or basket. If the deceased is religious, it may be appropriate to send a gate, cross, or bible arrangement. Rosary arrangements are usually reserved for the children or grandchildren of the deceased.

When Should I Send Flowers?

When sending flowers to the funeral home, it is usually best to have them arrive before the viewing time. This allows the staff to set up the arrangement properly before mourners arrive. Funeral homes may have different times or procedures to bring in arrangements, so it is best to coordinate with them on when delivery should occur.
You can always send flowers to the family’s home. It is never too early or too late to send flowers to the family’s home. An early arrangement can help cheer the family up at home. Flowers sent a few weeks after, can show that they are still in your thoughts.

Donations In Lieu of Flowers

Some families will ask that in lieu of flowers, a donation is made in their loved one’s name. This can be common amongst families of certain religions, such as some sects of Judaism. The family may also specify a specific charity to make the donation to. If you want to donate to a charity in a person’s name, send a letter to the family notifying them that the donation was made. You should not include the amount donated in the letter. If a family asks for donations in lieu of flowers, sending flowers could be in bad taste, and can be taken as disrespectful.

Matthew Funeral Home provides full-service floral arrangements and memorial gifts for the bereaved. Visit our floral arrangement website here, call today at (718)-494-2300, or visit our funeral home for help in choosing the right arrangement for your loved one’s service.
For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.