Share:

Certain holidays can be painful for those who have lost loved ones. But there is warmth and inspiration in remembering, and by creating unique traditions, you can recapture memories of them and celebrate their legacies. Funeral home directors encourage families to start remembrances to mark special occasions. Whether it’s Christmas or a birthday, here are several ways to honor those who have passed away, both now and in the years to come.

Inspirations for Remembering Loved Ones During the Holidays

1. Create a Memory Box

Decorate a box with photos and other images of the deceased. Place small slips of paper and pens next to it. Ask everyone to write down a holiday experience about the person and place the slips in the memory box. After the holiday meal, everyone can share their personal memories to feel connected to the loved one who’s no longer there.

2. Prepare a Favorite Recipe

Food is a heartwarming way to remember those who are gone. Perhaps they always prepared a favorite dessert or side dish for holiday meals, or they happily enjoyed food cooked by someone else. Start a tradition of including the dish at every family gathering. Before enjoying it, a family member, relative, or close friend can share a few words about how the deceased person relished the food item. Funeral home directors see this tradition at many wakes and pre-funeral services.

3. Share Remembrance Ornaments

funeral homeEncourage everyone to buy or make an ornament or memento that reminds them of the loved one. From photos and military insignia to favorite sports teams and travels, the list is endless. Hang the ornaments on a special remembrance tree in the person’s honor. Funeral home directors encourage families to celebrate the tradition each Christmas. The same remembrance can also be celebrated during Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.

4. Help the Less Fortunate

If the deceased volunteered or donated to a certain charity, continue to honor them with similar giving. Each year, ask families to contribute what they can in monetary donations. The family can also make suggestions on what other charities to help out. If time and travel schedules permit, consider volunteering for a day or two in memory of a loved one.

 

Marking annual traditions is a fitting way to remember those who have passed away. Not only does it offer comfort, but it’s also another way to connect families during the holidays. For 86 years, Morris Funeral Home Inc. in Wayne, WV, has helped clients by providing customized remembrances. The experienced and compassionate team takes pride in following family members’ wishes to the letter. Whether the preference is a burial service or cremation, you can rely on the entire funeral home staff to create a memorable ceremony. To learn more about their complete suite of services, call (304) 272-5171 or visit the website.

tracking