7 Important Things to Know About Haitian Funerals

Haitian funerals are deeply spiritual, blending Roman Catholic and Voodoo beliefs. These customs reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring connection between the living and the dead. As part of their ancestral tradition and Catholic faith, Haitians view death as the beginning, not the end. Keeping that in mind, here are seven top things to know whether you’re planning a funeral or attending one, or you're interested in Haitian funeral traditions.

1. Funerals Signify a Spiritual Transition

Many Haitians see death as the start of a spiritual journey. In Haitian Voodoo, the deceased are believed to be reborn 16 times, eight times as a man and eight times as a woman. After death, the soul remains "underwater" for 366 days before reincarnation. Roman Catholics in Haiti, however, believe in heaven and hell, and they focus on helping the soul pass into eternal peace.

2. Catholic and Voodoo Beliefs Blend Together

Most Haitians identify as Roman Catholic, but many also incorporate Voodoo practices into their faith. Both religions believe in a single supreme being — God (or Bondye in Voodoo) — and place a strong emphasis on spirits. Haitians often pray to ancestral spirits or loa, similar to how Catholics pray to saints. This blending of beliefs creates a unique spiritual duality that is characteristic of Haitian culture. 

3. The Oldest Family Member Leads the Funeral Planning

Traditionally, the eldest family member organizes the funeral. Before the service, a vigil brings together neighbors and friends. Mourners gather around a fire, drink coffee, chant, and dance to honor the spirit of the deceased. This community-focused celebration helps guide the soul to the ancestral realm.

4. Catholic Services Feature Rituals with a Local Twist

Haitian funerals follow a familiar framework but with cultural additions. Roman Catholic funerals in Haiti begin with a wake, followed by ritual cleansing of the body. Mourners may express grief with loud wailing or crying. A funeral procession travels through the village several times to confuse the spirit and prevent it from returning to haunt the family. At the church, prayers and eulogies are offered in honor of the deceased. A hearse carries the body to the burial site after the service.

5. Voodoo Funerals Include Rituals and Celebrations

In Voodoo funerals, the spirit is believed to linger for seven to nine days. During this time, families host celebrations with traditional music, dancing, and animal sacrifices. On the ninth day, a priest or priestess performs a ritual to release the soul. A year and a day later, families gather again for a Rite of Reclamation to place the spirit into a govi — a clay jar that allows the soul to guide the living.

Funeral Etiquette and Dress Codes Matter

There is a specific set of funeral etiquette to follow when attending a Haitian funeral. 

• Never wear red: Red is associated with violence or assassination. Wearing it can imply guilt in the person’s death.
• Opt for dark or neutral colors: Black, white, and purple are common. Discrete patterns are also acceptable.
• Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and wear long skirts or pants.
• Make meaningful gestures: Bring flowers, offer condolences, or donate toward funeral expenses if appropriate. White floral wreaths are welcome in Catholic services.

7. Burials Are Preferred, Despite Rising Costs

Most Haitians prefer burial over cremation and generally avoid organ donation, as keeping the body whole is essential for the journey into the afterlife. However, with rising costs and limited cemetery space, families often make great sacrifices to ensure a dignified farewell.

Even so, there are ways to reduce funeral costs without compromising care or meaning:

• Ask for the funeral home's General Price List (GPL): The GPL helps you compare services and understand precisely what’s included and how much each option costs.
• Consider a simpler burial package: You can choose a basic burial and hold a personalized memorial at home, in a church, or in a community space rather than purchasing a full-service funeral package.
• Be selective with add-ons: Opting for a modest casket or skipping extras like printed programs or elaborate transportation can help reduce expenses.
• Prioritize what matters most: In Haitian tradition, the first year is the most important for the soul’s journey. Focus your resources on the rites and moments that hold the most meaning for your family.

Honor Their Life, Your Way

Haitian funerals are a unique blend of ancient customs and Catholic rituals. Your family traditions or personal wishes may be quite different, but the most important thing is to honor someone special in ways that feel authentic for you. From planting a tree to sharing stories at a memorial, there are many ways to celebrate a life. To find other memorial suggestions, we recommend What’s Your Family Story and How Can it Shape Your Legacy?, Surfer’s Memorial Tribute: Honoring Lost Loved Ones with a ‘Last Wave’, and Top 10 Remembrance Gifts to Honor Their Memory. 

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