People who carry a casket during a funeral are called pallbearers. They can be men or women, and are often either family members or close friends.
The term "pallbearer" comes from the Latin word "pallium," which means "cloak." In ancient Rome, a person's cloak was used as a burial covering. Eventually, "pallium" became "pall," and the coverings for bodies became first shrouds and later caskets.
The duties of pallbearers are both practical and ceremonial.
They sometimes carry the casket into the church or meeting hall. After the funeral service, they carry the casket from the church to the hearse and then from the hearse to the graveside.
Here's how to choose pallbearers for your funeral shared by Everplans.com.