At the funeral of a loved one, it’s often appropriate to place mementos in the casket. These may be taken out later or may accompany the deceased through cremation or the burial services. These small tokens can be used to honor your loved one, express your feelings, and say goodbye. Here are a few ideas to consider. 

Items to Put in a Casket

1. Letters & Photos

These are good choices for both green burials and cremations, as well as ordinary burials, because the paper will decompose quickly. You might write a letter for your loved one, or encourage funeral guests to write notes. You can also include awards and certificates they earned, or even place a meaningful book in the casket.

2. Toys

The loss of young children can hit particularly hard. Many parents and families choose to put toys, such as stuffed animals, in the casket. It can be comforting to know that your young loved one has the items that they loved in life to take with them.

3. Keepsakes

Small items that your loved one treasured or that held special meaning for both of you may also be appropriate. For example, you can include jewelry, like a wedding ring, as well as medals, crafts, and other small keepsakes. If your loved one is being cremated or having a green burial, avoid putting in items made of plastic or polyester, as these are against regulations.

4. Religious Items

If your loved one was a person of faith, putting in symbols of their devotion can help express that. Rosary beads are a common choice, as are scriptures, prayers, or hymns. You may also want your loved one to wear religious attire. 

5. Ashes

If another member of your loved one's family was previously cremated, many families opt to lay them to rest together. The urn of a child or spouse can be placed in the casket. Another option is to mingle their ashes. 

If you need to plan a funeral in New Haven County, CT, contact Porto Funeral Homes. For over 75 years, they have offered compassionate and dignified funeral services with personal touches to honor each loved one. To learn more, call their East Haven location at (203) 467-3000 and West Haven at (203) 934-5000, or send them a message online.