Is it Customary to Wear a Poppy at a Funeral?
People in the UK wear poppies as a symbol of remembrance for those who have died in wars, particularly members of the armed forces.
Here’s the background:
· Origin: The tradition comes from the red poppies that grew on the battlefields of northern France and Belgium after World War I. These flowers became a symbol of hope and renewal following the devastation of war.
· Poem Inspiration: The idea was popularized by the famous 1915 poem “In Flanders Fields” by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, which describes poppies growing among soldiers’ graves.
· Remembrance and Charity: The Royal British Legion began selling artificial red poppies in 1921 to raise money for veterans and their families — a practice that continues today.
· When: People typically start wearing poppies in late October, leading up to Remembrance Day (11 November) and Remembrance Sunday (the closest Sunday to 11 November).
So, wearing a poppy is both a mark of respect and remembrance and a way to support those affected by military service.
In the UK, while the red poppy is the most widely recognised, there are actually several different colours of poppies, each carrying its own message and focus of remembrance:
Red Poppy
Meaning: Remembrance of all those who have died in military service.
Used by: The Royal British Legion.
Origin: Inspired by “In Flanders Fields.”
Message: "We remember and honour those who gave their lives in war."
Funds raised go to support veterans, service members, and their families.
White Poppy
Meaning: Commemoration of all victims of war — both military and civilian — and a commitment to peace.
Used by: The Peace Pledge Union (since 1933).
Message: "Remember the dead, but also work to prevent future wars."
Often chosen by people who wish to focus on peace and non-violence alongside remembrance.
Purple Poppy
Meaning: Remembrance of animals that have died or served in wars — such as horses, dogs, pigeons, and mules.
Used by: Originally the charity Animal Aid, now supported by the War Horse Memorial.
Message: "We remember the animals who also suffered and served."
Black Poppy
Meaning: Recognition of the contribution of Black, African, and Caribbean communities to the war efforts.
Used by: The Black Poppy Rose organisation (founded in 2010).
Message: "Honouring overlooked contributions of people of colour in wartime."
Each poppy represents a slightly different aspect of remembrance — some focus on honouring service, others on promoting peace or inclusivity — but all share a common goal: ensuring that the human cost of conflict is not forgotten.
Holmes & Family are Funeral Directors in Farnborough, Aldershot and Fleet, Hampshire. Our team will be wearing red poppies as a mark of respect for those whose lives have been lost during conflict all around the world.
