Despite being one of life’s most common and inevitable phenomena, dealing with death is hard. There are no rules of engagement when it comes to grief, nor is there any ‘proper’ way to deal with loss. Ultimately, the mourning process should console you and leave you with sufficient strength to pick right up where you left off; and that is why funerals are important.
A burial ceremony is important for the same reason that it is agonizing. It helps to emphasize the reality of the loss which is often what a deceased loved-one’s need to propel them to returning back to their normal affairs. Naturally, the presence of loved ones at a funeral cannot be overemphasized.
Unwritten Rules of Funeral Invitations
Funerals are sufficiently hard, but it is still quite possible to make it even harder inadvertently. Here are a few notes to consider when making out funeral invites – they may very well be the difference between having smooth sailing funeral preparations or a chaotic mess;
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The Rules Of Formal Invitations Do Not Apply
From personalized invites to RSVP’s, a lot of formal invitation features are eliminated while sending out an invitation for a burial ceremony. The basic purpose of a burial ceremony invitation is to inform people of the funeral and/or post-funeral gathering.
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Funeral Attendance By Invitation is a Rarity
Funerals are often for the close family and friends of deceased, however a notice can be sent to the public as well as those who may want to attend including extended family or coworkers. These notices will inform recipients of the death, and they in turn will decide whether or not to attend the funeral or in what other capacity they would rather respond.
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No Need to Feel Obligated
At the end of the day, a funeral is not a social event – between grief and shock, it is normal to let a few details slip through the cracks; but that is only a normal part of being a grieving loved one.
How to Write an Invitation for Co-worker to Attend a Burial Ceremony
While it is not normal to send personalized funeral invites to your coworker(s) (especially if you are not close friends). Naturally, however, the death of a spouse or close relative often prompts the management of your office and your colleagues to attend and show support – here is how you can notify them of the death and funeral arrangements.
- Gather information about the funeral that the Guests will need
Details may include who the funeral is for and when/where it will be held. It may also indicate any gestures that you would like from the guests during the funeral.
- Indicate whether or Not there’ll be a gathering afterward
A gathering after a funeral is often the perfect place to provide a meal for the guest and reminisce about the deceased. Remember to include details of the gathering (if any) on the invite.
Sample Invitation for Co-workers to Attend a Burial Ceremony
Depending on the circumstance, here are a few templates to follow when writing an invitation for co-workers to attend a funeral
If The Deceased is a Family/Friend of the Host…
In this instance, it may be best to inform your management of the loss and they will in turn pass it across to your colleagues – otherwise, you may choose to pen down a letter by yourself.
John Doe
2837 Locust View Drive
Novato, California
13th May 2030
Patrick J. Robertson
HR Manager,
BASCO Marine Electronics
Dear Sir,
I am deeply saddened to announce the death of my wife, Jane Doe who died on Monday, the 11th of may following a brief illness. It was not unforeseen as she has been in poor health for some years, and the effects of her heart condition compounded by cancer have taken its toll. The funeral has been scheduled for 19th of May at 12:00 at St Patrick’s funeral home located in Orange County, California – followed by a brief gathering at out residence in 2837 Locust View Drive Novato, California
Sincerely,
John Doe
Mechanical Engineering Department
+123 345 8759
Otherwise;
Memorandum
TO: ALL STAFF
SUBJECT LINE: A time for support
Dear All,
By now, many of you must be aware of the loss suffered by John Doe our chief Mechanical Engineer. His wife of 32 years, Jane, died suddenly on Monday evening, all indications being that it was the effects of her terminal illnesses.
You are enjoined to keep Mr Joe and his family in your thoughts and prayers as he is a valuable member of our team here.
Employees who may like to be present at the memorial and funeral service maybe permitted to leave work for the service will be on 19th of May at 12:00 at St Patrick’s funeral home located in Orange County, California
Any offer of support you might wish to make to John will be very much appreciated.
Sincerely,
Patrick J. Robertson
HR Manager.
If The Deceased is a Colleague of Theirs
If the deceased is a colleague and you’re merely informing the management of his/her passing, then HR (or the management) will be in the best position to relay the message to the co-workers of the deceased.
MEMORANDUM
To: ALL EMPLOYEES
Subject Line: A Great Loss
It is with immense sorrow that we inform you of the passing of Jane Michelle Doe who was a member of the production management team. Miss Joe passed away on the 12th of May, 2030 and She was an esteemed part of our company since 1st January 2019 – she will be greatly missed. Please keep Miss Doe’s family in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this tumultuous time.
Jane’s funeral will be on 19th of May at 12:00 at St Patrick’s funeral home located in Orange County, California.
Employees who may like to be present at the memorial and funeral service maybe permitted to leave work and should inform their supervisor’s appropriately. Those who cannot be present at the funeral are encouraged to attend other services and may contact the funeral home for further details.
Sincerely,
Patrick J. Robertson
HR Manager.
