When someone close to us dies, finding ways to honour their memory becomes an important part of healing. You might be planning a celebration of life, thinking about how to mark an anniversary, or simply looking for a way to keep their presence alive in your everyday life.
Whatever stage you’re at in your grief, we hope these ideas help you create something meaningful, personal, and lasting.
1. Plan a memorial service or celebration of life
A memorial service or celebration of life can take place weeks or even months after someone dies. Without the need for a coffin or body to be present, these services give families time to organise something that feels right. They can be simple or elaborate, intimate or open to the wider community.
Some people hold a barbecue on the beach. Others create a structured event with music, readings and flowers. Whatever you decide, the most important thing is that it reflects the personality and values of the person you’re remembering.
If you’re looking for personalised ideas, you can try our free send-off planner, A Fine Farewell.
2. Choose a memorial quote
A well-chosen quote can bring comfort and meaning. You might choose a line your loved one used to say, something from a favourite book, or a quote that captures their spirit. These can be added to an order of service, written on a memorial plaque, or kept close in a card or keepsake.
3. Read a poem aloud
Poetry can express what’s hard to put into words. Whether you're speaking at a service or simply reading something aloud at home, a poem can bring connection, reflection, and release. You’ll find collections of funeral poems for dads and funeral verses for mums that might help you get started.
4. Play a special piece of music
Music can bring comfort and stir memories. You might want to play a favourite song, a piece of classical music, or a tune that reminds you of happy times together. Many families include music in memorial services or simply create a playlist for moments at home.
5. Create a tribute video
A memorial video brings together photos, clips, and music in one heartfelt story. It’s a way to show the full picture of someone’s life—moments of joy, laughter, and love. Putting the video together can be a healing process in itself, and it’s something you can share with others, too.
6. Give out memorial favours
Offering a small token can be a touching way to thank guests and celebrate the person’s life. These keepsakes don’t need to be expensive—just thoughtful. Consider things like:
- Bookmark with a favourite quote
- Mini jars of homemade jam
- Flower seed packets
- Engraved keyrings
- Recipe cards with a signature dish
Think about what your loved one would’ve liked, and let that guide you.
7. Write a newspaper tribute
Many people still choose to share a few heartfelt words in a local newspaper. This could be a traditional obituary or a personal message of thanks and remembrance. Some families include a short poem or verse to express how they feel.
8. Install a memorial bench
A bench in a favourite spot—by a lake, under a tree, in your garden—can offer a place to sit and reflect. Public benches often include a small plaque with the person’s name and a short message. If you’d prefer somewhere private, placing one at home can be just as meaningful.
9. Plant a memorial tree
Trees are a beautiful symbol of life and growth. Planting one in memory of your loved one creates a living tribute that can last for generations. Just make sure to get permission if it’s not on your own land, and choose a tree that will thrive in your location.
10. Create a memorial garden
Even a small patch of garden or balcony can be transformed into a peaceful space to remember someone. Use plants they loved, add ornaments or wind chimes, and perhaps include a small plaque or stone. Over time, it becomes a sanctuary for reflection.
11. Place a memorial plaque or stone
Memorial plaques can be added to benches, walls, gardens, or crematorium memorial spaces. If the person was cremated, a plaque in a special spot can offer a focal point for remembrance. Some families also place stones or nameplates in natural burial grounds or religious gardens.
12. Share memorial gifts
Thoughtful gifts can help us feel connected. These don’t need to be grand gestures—just small reminders of love. Consider:
- Memorial candles
- Personalised baubles
- Framed photo prints
- Handmade cards
- Jewellery with a fingerprint or engraving
13. Mark the anniversary
The anniversary of a death can be an emotional day. Many people choose to mark it in their own way—quietly or with others. You might:
- Visit their resting place
- Light a candle
- Revisit a place you shared
- Listen to their favourite music
- Write them a letter or poem
- Gather with others who knew them
- Support a cause they cared about
14. Create memorial jewellery
Memorial jewellery offers a way to carry a loved one with you. You can have a small amount of ashes placed inside a pendant, ring, or bracelet. Or choose something engraved with a name, date, or fingerprint.
15. Consider a memorial tattoo
For some people, a tattoo is a deeply personal way to honour someone’s memory. There are UK studios that will even mix a small amount of cremation ashes into the ink. Designs can include meaningful symbols, names, dates, or favourite quotes.
16. Build a memory album or box
A photo album, scrapbook, or memory box can be powerful, especially for children. You might fill it with photographs, letters, mementoes, or drawings. Sitting down to create it together can open up space for conversation, storytelling, and healing.
17. Choose a memorial vase
Some people like to keep a memorial vase at home, either filled with fresh flowers or as a decorative reminder. It can be engraved with a name or message, or simply chosen for its beauty and meaning.
18. Get creative with a DIY memorial
Crafting something by hand can be a heartfelt act of remembrance. Whether it’s a hand-painted plant pot, a bookmark, or a candle holder, the process itself can be soothing.
19. Plan a memorial release
Releases can be symbolic moments during a memorial gathering. While balloon and lantern releases are falling out of favour due to environmental concerns, there are plenty of alternatives. Consider:
- Floating petals in water
- Biodegradable confetti
- Blowing bubbles
20. Take a family trip
Some families choose to honour someone’s memory with a shared trip—to scatter ashes, revisit a favourite place, or simply spend time together. It could be a hike, a seaside walk, or a return to somewhere meaningful. It’s a chance to talk, remember, and reconnect.
21. Hold a movie night
Gathering family and friends to watch your loved one’s favourite film, or a movie they particularly enjoyed, can be a comforting and joyful way to remember them. Add their favourite snacks, share stories, and let the evening be filled with laughter as well as tears.
22. Start a memory jar
Invite friends and family to write down their favourite memories, sayings, or moments shared with your loved one. These handwritten notes can be placed in a jar or box, creating a collection of love and stories that you can return to whenever you need comfort.
23. Support a cause they cared about
Making a donation, fundraising, or volunteering in someone’s honour can turn grief into action. It might be a charity they supported in life, or a cause that reflects their passions—animals, the environment, medical research, or the arts.
24. Name something in their memory
Whether it’s a racehorse, a boat, a rose in your garden, or even a dish you create, naming something after your loved one can keep their spirit alive in everyday conversation and life.
25. Upcycle a piece of their clothing
Turning a favourite item into something new can help keep their presence close. You might transform a shirt into a cushion cover, a scarf into a memory quilt square, or a jumper into a soft toy for a grandchild. It’s a meaningful way to breathe new life into something they wore and loved.
26. Frame their handwriting
If you have a note, card, or recipe that’s written in their handwriting, think about framing it. Seeing their familiar handwriting can be really comforting and a nice way to feel connected to them.
Grief has no timeline. Some of these ideas might feel right now, while others may feel more meaningful in months or even years to come. However you choose to remember someone you’ve lost, we hope you’ll feel empowered to create something that reflects their life, their spirit, and your love for them.
And if you’re considering a celebration of life, we’ve created a guide with lots of ideas to help you plan something unique when you feel ready.
