As you prepare to lay a loved one to rest, you may be thinking about adding items to the casket with them. A tradition dating back to ancient times, when people were buried with significant items to bring with them to the afterlife, it’s still commonplace to include items in a coffin before burial or cremation. Although objects like reading glasses, a favorite hat, or wedding rings are popular, here are several possessions you might consider adding to the coffin.

5 Meaningful Items to Bury With a Loved One 

1. Items Representing Hobbies or Interests

If your grandfather loved being on the golf course, or grandmother was rarely without her crochet hook, honor those interests by adding golf balls or the hook and yarn to the casket. You can add books, religious items like rosaries, or even a few pieces of their favorite candy to the casket as well.

2. Cremation Ashes

Family members may wish to include the remains of a loved one or pet that has been cremated. You can place cremated remains in a casket, allowing them to remain together after their passing.

3. Photographs

Many families add photos to a loved one’s casket, honoring memories of their life and giving them a visual reminder of loved ones to take with them. Photos can be in frames or not; coffins may even have small drawers to hold pictures and other mementos. Add photos from weddings, special events, family photos, or other snapshots that reveal a life well-lived. 

4. Memorabilia and Awards

If your loved one earned awards or other recognition from the military, sports, or other organizations, it is a nice gesture to add those honors to the casket before burial. Other options include memorabilia from favorite sports teams, vacations, or experiences. For instance, add a jersey from their favorite sports team, or a T-shirt from a beloved vacation destination.

5. Letters

Ask family members to write farewell letters to your loved one, and place them in the casket before the funeral. Even jotting down a special memory can help with the grieving process and add a meaningful touch to their final resting place. 

If you are facing the loss of a loved one, or want to preplan your funeral arrangements, the experienced professionals at Mihovk-Rosenacker Funeral Home can help. Since 1906, these compassionate, experienced professionals have been guiding families through all aspects of funeral and memorial planning, including casket and flower selection, burial options, and more. With two convenient Cincinnati, OH, locations on Cheviot Road and Plainfield Road, Mihovk-Rosenacker Funeral Home has been helping families since 1906. Visit their website today to learn more about their services, or call them at (513) 385-0511.