While the funeral itself can cost several thousands of dollars, the repast is flexible. For a repast hosted in a family member's home with homemade food, it could be free. For one in a traditional venue with catering, it might cost anywhere from $150-500.

Who pays for the repast?

Church banquet hall: For funeral services held at a church, a repast is often held at an on-site banquet hall. In some cases, the family or a close friend pays to have this type of gathering catered. Often, however, church members will volunteer to prepare food, serve, set up, and clean up after the event.

How much is appropriate to give at a funeral?

A general rule of thumb is that donations should be in line with the cost of a bouquet of funeral flowers. Even just a nominal donation for people on tight budgets is a welcome gesture. Funeral flowers tend to cost in the range of $50 to $80 for a moderate to well-sized bouquet, and $100 or more for a large wreath.