Where Farewells Begin: Amish Funeral Traditions
We hope this note finds you well and enjoying the warmth of early July. Here in the Heartland, the cornfields are stretching high, the gardens are full of promise, and the days—though still long—have begun their slow turn toward shorter evenings. On the Fourth of July, while the Amish do not celebrate with fireworks or patriotic displays, many families sat quietly on their porches, watching the distant bursts of color from neighbors on nearby farms. The soft flicker of fireworks across the fields is a reminder that even in a life of simplicity, beauty can be found in quiet observation.
This week, we begin a special six-part series exploring one of the most sacred and communal aspects of Amish life: the funeral. Much like weddings, funerals are a time when Amish families from far and wide gather to support one another, share stories, and reflect on the life of a loved one. These gatherings are not only about mourning, but also about connection—between generations, between neighbors, and between the living and the departed.
When death is expected, funeral arrangements may be quietly discussed in advance. A written will is often prepared, and the family may begin to consider burial location and other details. But whether the passing comes slowly or suddenly, the response from the community is swift and heartfelt. The local district church's appointed funeral director, along with older members of the congregation, steps in to guide the process. Neighbors arrive with food, help with chores, and offer quiet companionship. It's not uncommon for women to bring in fresh-baked pies or for young people to help scrub floors and tidy up the home in preparation.
The casket itself is typically made by a local Amish furniture maker—simple, wooden, and unadorned. There are no ornate handles or velvet linings. Just honest craftsmanship, a reflection of the life lived. The deceased is dressed in plain clothing, often similar to what they wore in life, and family members may assist in gently preparing the body. This act of care is deeply meaningful, offering a final moment of closeness and reverence.
Burial sites are typically located on land owned by an Amish family that has been designated as the local Amish cemetery and is often situated near the center of the community. There's no need for elaborate headstones or manicured lawns. The focus is on humility and faith, not display. And while costs are modest, the church and community often assist with food and other necessities, ensuring that no family bears the burden alone.
Faith plays a central role in every step. There is comfort in knowing that death is not an end, but a passage. When death is expected, families are encouraged to speak openly with their loved one—sharing memories, offering forgiveness, and expressing love. These conversations, held before passing, are often a source of peace for both the dying and those left behind.
Stories from Our Amish Basket Weavers
Here are a few happenings the families dedicated to weaving the beautiful baskets featured on AmishBaskets.com have shared with us this week.
The Mast Family
The Mast household was full of giggles this week as their 6-year-old daughter hosted a friend for a two-night stay. The highlight? Dressing up three of their playful puppies in baby dresses and doll nightgowns. The girls cradled the pups in their laps, gently trying to teach them to "stay" while the little dogs wiggled and squirmed with excitement. After a watermelon break at the picnic table, their mother discovered the trio of puppies tucked into the spare room—lined up on pillows, still dressed, and fast asleep. While the Masts adore their pups, house rules are house rules… and the girls were promptly called in to escort their furry friends back outside.
The Yoder Family
The Yoder girls spent a sunny afternoon helping neighbors with what may be the final strawberry picking of the season. They gathered nearly six gallons, while their neighbors shared that their four rows had yielded over 200 gallons this year—an impressive harvest by any measure. Much of the fruit has been sold or canned, and about 25 gallons were mashed and stored in an English neighbor's freezer for future use. The neighbors are now considering adding more rows next year and opening a small u-pick patch. After the berry baskets were full, the children cooled off with a splash in the neighbor's pond—a sweet ending to a fruitful day.
The Gingerich Family
The Gingerich family has also been busy in the berry patches this week, continuing their pursuit of wild black raspberries in the woods behind their home. The girls kicked things off by picking and canning five gallons early in the week, with permission to gather from a neighbor's timber as well. On Thursday, the boys joined in, and another five gallons were collected. By Friday, they had added another 4½ gallons to their haul. The berries—plump and sweet thanks to the recent rains—were quickly turned into jars of jam and fresh desserts. It's safe to say the Gingerich pantry will be well-stocked with Summer flavor for months to come.
"If you don't have time to do a job right, you're going to have to make time to do it over."
— Amish Wisdom
