When a loved one dies, one of the most frightening things about it is the thought that you will begin to forget them or that the memory of their loss will overshadow all the happier times you spent together. The good news is this: you will not forget them, ever. There are many ways to remember someone who has died so you can celebrate all the great things about them. Here are some suggestions:
Start a tradition
Find something that helps you feel close to them and do it every year. For example, you can:
Do something that you love to do
Take a trip to a place that means something to you both
Host a large family dinner and hold a toast – and invite their close friends
Light candles for them at night
Keeping something of theirs close
It could be something as simple as wearing their jewellery or watch every day or their favourite piece of clothing. A favourite shirt can be worn, turned into a pillow or framed to make art. Believe it or not, there are also companies that change loved one’s clothing into teddy bears.
Another (slightly unusual) way to remember someone special who has died is to get their ashes made into jewellery. Specialist craftsmen may suspend ash in glass or resin beads and put them in pendants, earrings, bracelets or rings.
Get something dedicated to them
Not sure if a traditional garden bench is the best way to remember someone who has died? There are many alternatives …
For lovers of the performing arts, you can dedicate a theatre seat, opera seat or one in a concert hall.
A seat in a football ground is a great way to remember a fan of the beautiful game.
For music lovers, you can call your local radio station and dedicate their favourite songs to them on their birthday.
Nature lovers can dedicate a tree or an acre of forest with the help of the Woodland Trust. Your funeral director can help with ideas. For Essex Funeral Directors, visit a site like https://www.tcribb.co.uk/
Support causes that are important to them
Is there a cause that your loved one really cared about that you can support? Or you could raise money for a charity that fights disease or supports a family like yours?
One of the best ways to remember someone who has died is to build something positive with their heritage. You can…
Establishing an online crowdfunding obituary asking friends and family to donate
Organize fundraising or do charity runs to raise sponsorship money
Sign up to donate a small amount each month in their memory
Visit the grave or scattering place
Your loved one’s grave, or the place where their ashes are scattered, can feel very meaningful. There is comfort to be had simply give yourself some time to sit with them there. If you prefer, you can also bring wreaths, garlands or (landowners permitting) something to plant.
