Pallbearers
Pallbearers
Pallbearers are the people chosen to carry a person who has died in their coffin, casket or bearer during a funeral. They may carry the person between the funeral vehicle and the place where the ceremony is being held, or from the vehicle to the lowering device at a grave.
Who can be a pallbearer? Pallbearers are generally chosen by the family. They may be family members, friends, colleagues or anyone the family feels is appropriate. There is no requirement for pallbearers to have a particular relationship with the person who has died.
They can be involved at different stages. Pallbearers do not necessarily need to carry the coffin or casket for the entire funeral. They may be asked to carry it:
- From the funeral vehicle to a church
- From the church back to the vehicle
- From the vehicle into a chapel or other venue
- From the vehicle to the lowering device at a grave
- At any combination of these stages
How many are needed? The number of pallbearers depends on the weight and design of the coffin or casket, as well as the circumstances of the carry. A traditional coffin or casket will commonly weigh around 30–40 kg, and sometimes more, so six pallbearers are usually required.
A Daisybox weighs approximately 6 kg by itself, making it considerably lighter to carry. Four pallbearers are generally sufficient for a Daisybox, although the number required can depend on the person being carried and the circumstances.
Pallbearer assistance. Sometimes a family does not have enough people available to safely carry the coffin or casket. In these circumstances, a request for Pallbearer Assistance can generally be made.
In the Southern Downs Regional Council area, the council does not charge for pallbearer assistance, but the request needs to be formally logged. This provides a record of who is assisting with the carry and is important for insurance purposes.
Being a pallbearer can be a meaningful way for family and friends to take part in a funeral. It is both a practical responsibility and, for many people, a significant part of saying goodbye.