Losing a loved one is sadly an inevitable part of life, however, finding meaningful ways to honour their memory can bring peace and comfort during times of grief. There are numerous ways to keep someone’s legacy going and therefore no singular “right” way to honour a life, however, we hope the list of suggestions below helps provide you with ideas based on popular tributes that can provide closure and remembrance.
Traditional & Popular Tribute Ideas
Over the years and through generations, some tribute ideas have become more popularised than others due to their impact and longevity, though new ideas are also starting to emerge due to our use of technology and digital services, including:
Planting Trees Or Flowers:
One timeless way to commemorate a loved one is by planting a tree or perennial (long-lasting) flower in their memory. Whether it’s in your own garden or another meaningful place, watching the tree or flower grow and blossom can serve as a beautiful reminder of your loved one’s presence as well as contribute to the beauty of its surroundings. Organisations such as the Woodland Trust and National Trust For Scotland also offer the opportunity to dedicate a tree in someone’s memory which can be done online.
Dedicating A Place To Their Memory:
Alternatively (or alongside) the above option, you can also dedicate a special place to honour your loved one which can provide a tangible space for remembrance where people can gather. This could be a bench with a plaque at a meaningful location or other commissioned space. This can usually be arranged through your local council, e.g. Dundee City Council has a regularly updated page regarding public memorials, or via a private organisation if the place is on private or protected land. Your chosen place also doesn’t have to just be on Earth – some organisations provide the opportunity to name a star after a loved one, creating an everlasting presence in the night sky.
Creating A Virtual Tribute:
In today’s digital age, we’re seeing an increase in virtual tributes and this can provide a modern yet heartfelt way to celebrate the life of a loved one and share memories with those who knew them from around the world. You can also set up an online Tribute Fund where friends and family can gather to share stories, memories, and photographs. Platforms such as Age UK Tribute Funds offer a simple and beautiful way to create a personalised website without any technical knowledge while also raising funds for charity.
Donating To A Cause Your Loved One Supported:
Another common and meaningful way to honour a loved one’s memory is by supporting a charitable organisation that held significance to them. This could include fundraising, setting up a regular donation, or simply donating on a one-off basis. Regardless of how big or small your donation is, the amount will go on to support the cause and create a wider impact that contributes positively to other people and/or wildlife, nature, and habitats.
25 More Ideas for Honouring the Memory of a Loved One
As funeral directors in Dundee (with locations across the City and St Andrews), our team are conscious that cost can be a big deciding factor when it comes to funeral arrangements and associated tributes and memorials. Below, we have listed some additional commemorative ideas for small, medium, and larger budgets to help you make a more informed decision and explore options you perhaps had not considered before.
Smaller-Budget Ideas:
- Organising a charity fundraiser or volunteer event in your loved one’s name, supporting a cause they were passionate about.
- Creating a memory box filled with items that remind you of your loved one, including photos, letters, jewellery, CVs / DVDs, and other keepsakes.
- Organising a community cleanup project in a place your loved one cherished or where they spent time.
- Creating a blanket using fabric from their old clothing or belongings, with each square representing a different memory.
Medium-Budget Ideas:
- Hosting a themed dinner party featuring your loved one’s favourite recipes or cuisine(s) and inviting friends and family to share memories.
- Sponsoring a community project or initiative that aligns with your loved one’s values and beliefs.
- Creating a time capsule filled with items that represent their life, achievements, and the era they lived in, to be opened on significant anniversaries.
- Establishing a mentorship scheme for individuals pursuing similar careers or passions to your loved one.
Higher-Budget Ideas:
- Establishing a scholarship or educational fund in your loved one’s name to support aspiring students.
- Commissioning a piece of artwork or a sculpture that reflects your loved one’s personality or interests
- Establishing a community award honouring individuals who embody your loved one’s values and carry on their legacy.
- Starting a community garden or urban green space in your loved one’s memory, with all produce and/or flowers donated to local charities.
Speak to our team at your nearest James Ashton & Son branch:
1, 1a Cardean Street, Dundee, Angus, DD4 6PS
188 High Street, Lochee, Dundee, Angus, DD2 3DN
132 – 136 Hilltown, Dundee, Angus, DD3 7BJ
56 Largo Road, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8RP (Macgregors)
Planning a funeral or tribute can be a daunting task, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. Your dedicated James Ashton & Son Funeral Director will be there to help you along every step of the way! They will work with you to create a funeral and lasting tribute that is personal and meaningful, and they will be there to offer support to you and your family during this difficult time.