Hub been asked to be pall bearer

I googled What does a pallbearer do? and got this page. You might like to have a look.

Thank you very much. It is, indeed, very helpful.

Whatever you husband is asked to do it will be the responsibility of the Funeral Directors to ensure everything is done safely and with due care and reverence. I am sure they would tactfully ensure that anyone who was physically not up to the task would be accommodated. Tell you OH not to worry and to have a quiet word as and when this sad event takes place.

My two sons and my brother were asked to help carry my mother's coffin as we got out of the car at the church. I was so glad not to have had time to worry as one of them is quite notorious for dropping things. As it was, they did very well, despite my elder son being at least 4 inches taller than the other pall bearers. It was very moving to see them carry their much loved grandmother on her final journey and I am sure your husband will feel honoured to help his friend, even if it is just walking beside the coffin and not carrying it.

There is something appropriate and moving about friends and family being pallbearers rather than unknown individuals from the funeral directors.

I do not think it matters that such pallbearers are not slick or professional, so he must not worry about this. As has been said the funeral directors will make sure that all is safe for those involved; the most important thing is that your husband will feel he is fulfilling the wishes of his friend. It does not matter exactly how it is done.