There are many ways to honor a loved one who has passed. Memorial keepsakes can be a meaningful way to capture what was special about a loved one, and feel close to them for years to come. These remembrance gifts can become treasured family heirlooms, keeping your loved one’s memory alive for the next generation. Below are some ideas for memorial gifts and other mementos your family can pursue to create new traditions and celebrate your loved one.
Prayers, Poems & Verses
Funeral prayers, poems and verses are a beautiful way to celebrate your loved one’s life. They can be read at the funeral services and later, on your own or with family. In the document below, we have put together several examples from throughout history, from traditional verses to time-honored poems, including both religious and secular options. Grief poems can be a meaningful way to share your feelings with others, and memorial service prayers are something that everyone at your loved one’s services can take part in. If you would like to share one or more at your loved one’s services, please let us know. We are here to help.
Make Meaningful Mementos
Memorial keepsakes can be a creative, hands-on way to honor everything that was special about your loved one. These personal remembrance gifts can be as simple or intricate as you want them to be. What’s important is that they help you remember everything you loved about your loved one, and help you follow the path toward healing.
Below are some ideas for tribute mementos:
- Decorate a memorial frame to put your loved one’s photo in.
- Make a memory scrapbook of your loved one’s most cherished memories and life events.
- Use their clothing to make a memorial blanket or quilt, or a memory teddy bear.
- Make a personalized memorial plaque with your loved one’s photo and a favorite quote or saying.
- Create a shadowbox with the little things that were important to them, like their wallet, favorite jewelry, housekeys, and other small household items.
- Make a collage of your favorite photos of them and print it on a postcard. You can send this card to your loved one’s extended family and friends.
Memorial keepsakes can be a meaningful way to capture what was special about a loved one, and feel close to them for years to come.
Create New Traditions After Loss
Starting new traditions is another way to keep your loved one’s memory alive. This can be a continuation of existing traditions, like your loved one’s birthday, or completely new traditions that are meaningful to you and your family.
- Celebrate your loved one’s birthday each year by making their favorite food and sharing stories.
- Choose a specific day for your family to gather at your loved one’s gravesite, ash scattering location, or memorial location to leave flowers and share favorite memories.
- Honor your loved one during the holidays by making a special toast or by leaving their chair empty.
- Plant a memorial garden with their favorite blooms, and share the flowers with your family members.
- Gather your family to watch their favorite movies or listen to their favorite music.
