When you live far from a family friend who recently lost someone, it isn’t always possible to attend the funeral service. But even if you can’t go, there are still ways you can show your love and support. Here’s a guide to how you can still be there for someone in other ways. 

Meaningful Gestures When You Can’t Make It To the Funeral

1. Send Flowers 

When you can’t make the funeral service in person, the next best thing is to show your support with a gesture. By sending flowers along with a condolence note, you’re reminding your loved one in grief that you’re thinking about them. Sending flowers to the deceased family member is a smaller arrangement than a funeral service option, which is usually more sizable. An element of beauty combined with a meaningful note has a chance to tap into their emotions and offer relief during a trying period. 

2. Make a Donation in the Deceased’s Name

Another option is to let your loved one know that you placed a donation in the deceased’s name. While sometimes a family member will specify a cause to support in the deceased’s honor during the funeral service, if they don’t, you can always use your knowledge of the individual to give to a cause they cared about. For instance, if they loved animals, you could give to a dog rescue shelter. By taking this action, you’re helping your family friend feel as though the values of their lost one are living on through your contribution. 

3. Call or Video Chat 

When you simply can’t make the travel work, you can still be a supportive friend by using the phone or a more sophisticated technology like video chat. That way, you can offer your condolences directly and serve as a deep listener if they’re in a talking mood. But it’s worth noting that the grieving person may not have the mental bandwidth to participate in this kind of call yet — the best move is to gently contact them and feel out if it’s something that might be helpful.  

If you’ve lost someone close to you and would like assistance planning the funeral service, you can count the caring funeral home, Morris Funeral Home in Wayne, WV. The family-run institution is made available to clients 24/7 because they know how difficult the aftermath of a loss can be. To reach their licensed funeral director, feel free to call (304) 272-5171. Learn more about the home by visiting their website.