Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things to experience in life, and it can feel even more emotionally strenuous when circumstances prevent you from attending the memorial service. In this situation, there are still ways to show your support to the rest of the family. Here are a few ideas on how to do this while remaining sensitive to your family’s needs.

3 Ways to Support Loved Ones From Afar

1. Visit at an Appropriate Time

Even if you must miss the memorial service, you can visit the family later to express your condolences in person. Keep in mind that the period of grieving is emotionally overwhelming for family members. Be respectful and thoughtful by waiting a few weeks before visiting so as not to make them feel suffocated by well-wishers.

2. Mail Gifts to the Funeral Home

A personally chosen gift will show your heart and thoughts are with the family in their time of loss, even though you can’t be present. The gift can be something practical for use in the service; something with emotional significance for you, the deceased, and the family members; or something decorative, like a tasteful flower arrangement. Include a card with a heartfelt, handwritten message to express your sympathy.

3. Send Food to the Family

Gifts of food are one of the most practical and welcome expressions of support during a time of grief. Meals can be served at the wake or be delivered in the days after the memorial service, so the family doesn’t have to worry about cooking. If you’re unable to make food yourself, have it delivered by a service.

If you’ve recently lost a loved one and are searching for a funeral home to assist with the memorial service, the compassionate staff at Holman-Howe Funeral Home in Seymour, MO, is prepared to help. To their experienced funeral directors, assisting families in times of grief is a matter of service, not just business. Learn more about their resources online and call (417) 741-6127 today to speak with a caring funeral director.