In a recent interview, a Ghanaian undertaker known as Isaac has opened up about the unique ways he prepares bodies for burial, revealing a surprising approach rooted in respect for the deceased’s life and career.
Speaking with Razak Ghana, Isaac explained that he often styles the bodies of the deceased to reflect the work or public image they were known for in life. “I dress dead bodies according to what they were known for when they were alive,” he said.
According to Isaac, this practice is sometimes requested by family members—especially the Abusuapanin (head of the family)—who wish for the deceased to be remembered in a way that highlights their legacy during the final rites. However, he added that more often than not, undertakers like himself make these decisions independently, using their discretion to reflect the individual’s societal role or identity.
Isaac confidently described his role, stating, “Even though the dead are meant to rest in peace, I personally ‘stress’ the bodies. That’s what makes me stand out.” He further explained that the term "stress" in this context refers to posing or presenting the bodies in specific ways, such as making them appear standing or active, depending on the nature of their past work or achievements.
His comments have sparked mixed reactions online, with some praising the attention to detail and cultural relevance, while others question whether such practices align with the idea of allowing the dead to "rest in peace."
This interview adds to the ongoing conversation about funeral customs in Ghana and how undertakers are increasingly seen not just as service providers, but as storytellers of the final chapter in a person's life.
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