Memorial Type Gifts
Family members or friends often wish to honor someone after they have passed away through a memorial gift. Memorial gifts are traditionally given in the name of the deceased. The family of the deceased may find comfort in the fact that a special memory lives on, acknowledging the life of their loved one.
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Donation of Money
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A monetary donation can be made in the name of the deceased. Often monetary gifts are given to charities that the person who passed away supported in his lifetime. If the deceased suffered death from an illness, donations can also be given to an organization that funds medical research to help find a cure for that particular diagnosis. If the deceased loved animals, a donation to PETA or the ASPCA would be appropriate. If he supported the arts, donate to a local museum or liberal arts university. Some people may also choose to donate money to a hospice house where the deceased spent his final days.
Memorial Markers
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Memorial markers are a special way to honor a loved one who has passed on. Bricks or stones engraved with his name, date of birth and date of death may be incorporated into a wall or a garden and will serve as a lasting memory of your loved one. Some hospitals, hospice homes and colleges offer bricks or stones for purchase that will honor the deceased on their property while supporting their organization. Plaques honoring the deceased are another simple memorial that will be appreciated by the families. The plaque can include his name, date of birth, date of death, and a short quote or poem describing the deceased. Some towns, beaches and parks allow you to purchase an engraved bench for the property to show honor for your loved one. This is a nice idea if the deceased frequently visited such a place.
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Keepsake Jewelry
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Keepsake jewelry is a memorial gift that can serve as a special daily reminder of a loved one. Jewelry can be engraved with photos, names and special dates related to the deceased. Items such as lockets, charms or pendants can be worn in remembrance of your loved one. Cremation jewelry that contains ashes of your cremated loved one is another option for keeping someone close. A special trinket such as an angel or cross that reminds you of the deceased can be given in place of jewelry. A note or card describing the meaning of the jewelry or trinket is a nice added touch.
Flowers and Plants
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Flowers are a beautiful and simple way to honor the loss of a loved one. Flowers show the family you care, and they will be placed on the grave of the deceased or showcased during the memorial service. People who wish to give a longer-lasting memorial gift but like the idea of flowers could give a plant or a potted flower. These can be planted later at the grave or in the yard of family members. Another option is to plant a tree in memory of the deceased. Organizations such as the Arbor Day Foundation will plant trees in the name of your loved one in an area where trees are needed.
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