What to wear
Dark colors. Suits or modest dresses. Hats acceptable on women — even encouraged in some Black church traditions.
What to bring
A food contribution to the repast. Family will appreciate it. If you can't cook, bring something from a Black-owned restaurant or a tray from Sam's Club.
What to say
"I'm sorry for your loss. [Name] meant a lot to me." That's it. Don't try to fill silence with theology you're not sure of.
What to do at the repast
Eat, hug, listen. Tell stories about the deceased. Stay long enough that the family feels supported but not so long they're exhausted.