Glossary
Pallbearer
A pallbearer is one of the people who carry or escort the casket at a funeral, typically from the service to the hearse and to the graveside. Pallbearers are usually family members or close friends, and honorary pallbearers walk alongside without lifting.
A casket is heavy, so several pallbearers — often six — share the weight. Honorary pallbearers are named as a mark of respect but do not physically carry the casket.
Funeral homes can usually arrange staff to assist if a family does not have enough people to serve as pallbearers.
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Common questions
- How many pallbearers are needed?
- Often six, since a casket is heavy and the weight is shared, though the number can vary. If a family does not have enough people, funeral homes can usually arrange staff to assist.
- What is an honorary pallbearer?
- An honorary pallbearer is named as a mark of respect but does not physically carry the casket, walking alongside instead. It is a way to recognize someone who may be unable to lift or whom the family wishes to honor.
- Who is usually chosen as a pallbearer?
- Pallbearers are typically close family members or friends of the person who died. The role is considered an honor, and families often choose people who were especially important to the deceased.
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