22/05/2020
The recent passing of one of our beloved Coasters, Butch Coll brought to our attention the long standing tradition of showing respect for a funeral cortege.
Many locals wanted to show their respect and our current circumstances made this difficult - but not impossible. People of all walks of life dotted the streets and roads almost all the way to the cemetery – standing quietly as the funeral cortege drove slowly past. Oncoming traffic pulled to the side of the road, waiting until the hearse and family cars moved on.
Not so long ago every funeral procession was given this respect – workers would down tools and ‘doff their hats', cars would pull over, people walking would stop and wait with bowed heads as the mourners’ cars moved along.
A funeral procession is a chain of connection, a visible sign of the unseen bond of grief. To the bereaved it is inconceivable that the world keeps going when their world has stopped, that life goes on seemingly unaware someone precious has been lost - but for this day they are seen. When we pause for the grieving family, this quiet moment shows that we see them, the loss of their loved one is noticed and acknowledged.
Sadly, this traditional tribute appears to be slowly being forgotten. In our busy lives it seems less people take the time to pause or are even aware of this funeral etiquette. Respect and compassion have to be taught and maybe we’re all guilty of not handing this custom down. Respecting the ceremonial importance of a funeral procession is still wanted and needed so check with your family today – do they know about pulling over or stopping? With just a small amount of effort this simple but hugely moving gesture could become commonplace again.
Thank you to all those people who show respect for a funeral procession - it takes just a moment for the cortege to go by, but your small act of kindness is remembered by families forever.
