What Is a Double Funeral?

Planning a funeral comes with many choices – cremation or burial, open or closed casket, private or public service. One option that may be less familiar is a double funeral, a single ceremony held for two people.

In this guide, we’ll walk through what a double funeral is, when it might make sense, and how families bring these meaningful gatherings to life.

What Does 'Double Funeral’ Mean?

A double funeral is a single funeral service held for two people. The specifics of the service often depend on personal, cultural, or religious factors, as well as the family's and community's wishes.

Another Meaning of ‘Double Funeral’

While a double funeral typically refers to a joint ceremony for two people, the term has occasionally been used to describe a second funeral for someone who already had an earlier service.

For example, historians note that King Louis X of France had a second funeral service when his brother arrived a month after his death. Some view this as the only “double funeral” ever held for a French king.

Why Do People Choose Double Funerals?

Most double funerals occur when two people pass away at or around the same time, often people who shared a close relationship, such as spouses, siblings, or twins.

Planning a double funeral may be practical and meaningful, but it can require extra coordination:

• A larger venue may be needed: Double funerals often draw more guests than a single service, which can exceed the space available at smaller locations.
• Limited space at funeral homes: Some facilities may not be able to accommodate large gatherings in one room. In those cases, families might be offered the option to hold services at the same time in separate spaces.
• Scheduling can be more complex: Coordinating clergy, staff, and transportation for two individuals, especially if they have different preferences or faith traditions, requires additional planning.

What Happens at a Double Funeral?

While every double funeral is unique, they tend to include elements common to most funerals, with a few adjustments:

• Extended visitation hours to accommodate larger crowds.
• Multiple eulogies, tributes, or songs honoring each individual.
• Joint or side-by-side displays, such as caskets or memorial photos.

Organizers may work closely with clergy or celebrants to ensure that both lives are equally honored during the service.

Is There Special Etiquette for Double Funerals?

There are no universal rules for double funeral etiquette, but a few considerations may help:

Offering Condolences Thoughtfully

If you're offering sympathy to a family who lost two loved ones, try to acknowledge both individuals:

• Mention both names in your condolence card or message.
• Even if you only knew one of the deceased personally, it’s thoughtful to honor both lives.

Giving Sympathy Gifts or Donations

Since double funerals often involve double the expenses, consider adjusting your gift or donation accordingly if you can.

Overall, follow general funeral etiquette, but stay attuned to the emotional weight of the situation. Losing two people at once can be especially devastating.

Examples of Notable Double Funerals

Learning about real-life double funerals can offer insight into how families navigate these moments and why they choose joint services.

Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds

Hollywood icon Debbie Reynolds passed away just one day after her daughter, Star Wars actress Carrie Fisher. Their family chose a double funeral to honor the powerful bond they shared – one that remained strong until the end. Reynolds' last words were, reportedly, “I want to be with Carrie.”

Norman and Gwendoline Hendrickson

Norman Hendrickson passed away just moments after arriving at the funeral home for his wife’s service. His family honored both by placing him alongside his wife in the viewing room. A sign outside read: “Surprise — it’s a doubleheader.” The gesture brought a bit of levity to a difficult day.

Helen Cook and Clara Mitchell

Twins Helen Cook and Clara Mitchell were inseparable in life and passed away within 18 hours of each other. Their families arranged a double funeral to reflect the deep connection they shared. According to the mortuary, it was the only twin double funeral they had ever hosted.

Double Funerals: A Shared Goodbye

While a double funeral isn’t always the right choice, it can be a profound way to honor two lives that were deeply intertwined. Whether for spouses, siblings, or best friends, a double funeral reflects the enduring bonds that connect us – even in death.

Looking for ideas or answers? Discover which funeral service is the best fit for you or a loved one, whether traditional or trendy. Find sympathy gifts for a grieving family and get tips on writing a eulogy.

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