Seven Ideas for Family Memorial Services

You have many options to choose from when planning a memorial service. The event can follow the same format as a traditional and structured funeral service, or it can be unstructured and contain creative elements that both honor and celebrate the deceased. During your time of grief, it may be difficult to think about ideas for your loved one’s memorial service. The following ideas can help you brainstorm the possibilities.

Theme-Based Memorial Service – If there was a particular hobby or cause that was important to your loved one, then you might consider a theme-based service. For example, if they loved everything related to horses, ranching, and rodeos then you might create a cowboy-themed service.

Slideshow – Slideshows can showcase your loved one’s life from beginning to end. You can gather pictures and videos from loved ones and create a show that everyone will feel a part of. It’s a nice way to honor both the deceased and those who loved them.

Memory Table – Another option for a family memorial service is to create a memory table. It might contain photos, memorabilia, and even books, records and other  significant belongings.

Readings – You can have people read passages from your loved one’s favorite books,  poetry or songs. People can also share some of their favorite stories about the loved one.

Gifts/Keepsakes – Another option for a family memorial service is to give something away to attendees. For example, if your loved one was a baseball fan, then you can give away baseballs or baseball cards with your loved one’s photos on the cover. The keepsakes should represent your loved one and give attendees something to remember them by.

Celebration – Occasionally people like to have a ceremony or celebration in honor of the loved one that has passed. For example, you might release balloons, light lanterns, or have a candle lighting ceremony.

Music – The music you choose for the memorial service can reflect the preferences, personality, and style of your loved one. For example, if they loved country music, then you might play their favorite country songs throughout the ceremony.

It is never easy when a loved one has passed away. However, you can help ease the pain by celebrating their life with a family memorial service. Creating a memorial that celebrates who they were and what they meant to you can be a nice way to say goodbye.