Lockdown restrictions in Scotland have limited the amount of attendees allowed at funerals. A local funeral home director is stepping up to try and revive an old tradition for those unable to participate to still be able to pay their final respects.
Tim Purves, chairman of William Purves Funeral Directors, said in an interview with the BBC that his father told him of a time, over 20 years ago, when a funeral procession went by and people would respectfully pause and honor the dead. Perhaps taking a cap off or bowing their heads.
Mr. Purves said: “At this time when many people can’t attend a funeral it would be nice to see this tradition come back as a sign of marking that person’s life and for everyone to show support for the bereaved during this time.”
The role of a funeral director has proven essential, but is being heavily compromised due to the coronavirus. Services are meant to help families and friends cope with the loss of a loved one, in Scotland and many communities around the world funeral services are limited to close family members and often only attended by five to seven people.
About 50% of families that Mr. Purves has serviced so far, are planning to host a memorial service once the restrictions are lifted. Mr. Purves hopes to raise awareness about what should be a timeless tradition so that people will stop and bow their heads when they see a hearse passing. Reviving an old tradition that can give some form of comfort to families of the deceased, letting them know we see you and stand by you during this hardship.