I have never seen a female pallbearer (as opposed to an honorary pallbearer) before. Does anyone know who she is?
The pallbearers were Rehnquist's clerks or former clerks.
The lady in question appears fairly tall and strong, so no reason why she shouldn't. Too great a disparity in the bearer's heights, so they couldn't easily carry the casket on their shoulders.
I have not checked to confirm, but dollars to donuts it is Maureen Mahoney.
http://www.lw.com/attorney/attorneysearch_profile.asp?attno=00571
She is a fine advocate. Easily one of the best in the country.