Special ideas to mark the passing of a loved one

Dealing with the death of a beloved relative or friend is one of life’s toughest challenges and it’s human nature to feel as though we should mark their passing with something to remember them by.

From our ancestors right up to today, humans have always felt the need to express their sense of both love and loss - whether that be in Roman and Greek times with the erection of statues and buildings, to more modern practices like installing a gravestone or keeping the ashes of the departed in a bespoke cremation urn.

Marking an anniversary

While the immediate shock of losing a loved one will inevitably knock you sideways, with time you will come to accept their passing and, further down the line, it may seem fitting to establish a tribute to their lives. Despite the pain that loss brings, the anniversary of a death also gives us time to reminisce, to remember the good times and to thank that special person for the good times they gave us.

Below are some ideas you might want to consider to mark the passing of a beloved friend or relative.

Design a plaque or engraving in their memory

It’s commonplace for people to leave flowers at a grave or other special place but, of course, plants wither with time. Rather, if you want to leave a more permanent tribute, you could think about designing a plaque or an engraved brick in their memory - something you can install that has permanency. Often an engraved short poem or thank you message works best, which you can then put in a place that was special to them - perhaps where you scattered their ashes or at a scenic spot you both frequented while they were alive.

Arrange a gathering or small service at a significant place

On the subject of special places, it often helps the bereaved to revisit these locations to relive precious memories that are held dear. If this place was shared by many, you may want to arrange a small gathering or even hold a service to mark their memory and the difference the person made in your lives.

Plant a memorial tree

Many people take comfort from the adage, ‘From death comes life’, and planting a memorial tree can give you a lasting place to visit in the future and remember that special someone. Watching a tree grow can provide a sense of continuance that is often reassuring in a time of loss.

Light a candle lantern

Whether you’re religious or not, most people believe in the idea of the departed going heavenward to another place. Lighting a memorial candle lantern can bring solace that the spirit of your loved one still endures somewhere.

Revisit their place of death or final resting place

Only you will be able to decide if you’re ready to visit the place your friend or relative died, but it can often bring a sense of closure to go back to their place of death. If you’re not quite there yet, even just visiting their grave and paying your respects should make you feel closer to them again - if only in mind rather than in body.