Dealing with the passing of a loved one is never easy, and it can be difficult to truly honor them in the way they deserve. A traditional funeral service brings people together to celebrate the person’s life, but it’s also important to find ways to honor your loved one in a way that’s personal to them and their family and friends. Here are some ideas.

How to Honor Your Loved One After They’ve Passed

1. Make a Donation in Their Name

Many families choose to collect or accept donations to a loved one’s favorite charity or cause in lieu of flowers or other gifts. If the person had an organization or issue that was particularly close to their heart, consider making a donation in their name and ask others to do the same.

2. Complete a Scrapbook

Going through old photos and mementos can be a very healing experience after a loss. It can also help you remember the good times you had with your loved one rather than focusing on the sadness of loss. Once your scrapbook is completed, you can also flip through it periodically to honor and remember them.

3. Start a New Tradition

Did your loved one have a favorite hobby or event? You can bring yourself closer to them by experiencing those things yourself. For example, take a dance class you know they loved or dedicate your family’s weekly dinner to your loved one by making some of their favorite dishes.

4. Plant a Tree or Garden

You can also honor someone who has passed on by bringing a new living thing in the world that you can watch grow over time. Plant a tree in your front yard or a local park that your family member loved walking through or start a garden filled with their favorite flowers. You’ll be reminded of them every time you pass by.

5. Live in a Way That Makes Them Proud

Finally, continue to honor your loved one by simply living your life in a way that you know they would appreciate if they were still around. Keep them in mind as you make decisions and achieve the things they wanted for you. Go back to school, start a business, be a great parent, and live your values to make sure their memory lives on.

If you’ve lost a loved one and are looking to plan a funeral service, the team at Porto Funeral Homes in New Haven County, CT, can help. The funeral home offers cremation and burial services to fit your family’s needs. You can also set up burial trusts to reduce your family’s burden during such a difficult time. The caring team prides itself on helping families through the mourning process and making those difficult days just a bit easier. Call (203) 467-3000 for East Haven or (203) 934-5000 to reach their West Haven location. Visit the company’s website to speak with a funeral director and learn more about planning your service.