Memorialization is an important part of saying goodbye to a departed loved one, grieving their loss, and celebrating their life. If your loved one has requested cremation services, memorializing them is just as important as it would be with a traditional funeral and burial. Here are a few ways to honor them with a respectful tribute.

How to Honor a Loved One Who Has Been Cremated

1. Hold a Memorial Service

A memorial service is a perfect opportunity for family members and friends of the deceased to gather, grieve, and reminisce. You can hold the service at a funeral home, church, banquet room, or anywhere else that feels appropriate.

You may choose to have the cremains present in an urn or other receptacle once they have been returned by the cremation service, but there's no rule that says the ashes must be there. This is a time to honor your loved one, so feel free to make it as special as they were. 

Eulogies, music selections, and readings are always appropriate at these events. Personalize the service even more with a memorial table of photos and keepsakes from your loved one's life; serve their favorite food and drinks; or choose an urn in their favorite color or material, such as pottery or stone.

2. Plant a Tree

A tree will serve as a loving reminder of your loved one for years to come. This is especially important with cremation, as there usually isn't a physical gravesite to visit. 

If the deceased was a nature lover or had a green thumb, plant their favorite tree in a meaningful location. Alternatively, there are charities that plant trees in honor of the deceased, and you could make a donation and have them plant the tree for you.

3. Contribute to a Charity

Speaking of charities, they can ensure your loved one's legacy lives on. Think about the causes and concerns that were important to the deceased, and identify one or two different nonprofit organizations that work in those areas. For example, if your loved one was affected by a certain condition, like dementia or cystic fibrosis, you can find an establishment that's dedicated to curing or treating it. 

Encourage family members and friends to make donations in the name of the deceased. Working with a charity is a nice gesture that not only pays tribute to the departed, but it also helps others. 

When you're planning cremation services, the caring professionals at Arpp, Root & Carter Funeral Home will help. For over 75 years, they've helped families throughout Germantown, OH. They offer funeral, cremation, and burial services and will guide you through every step of the planning process. Call (937) 855-2011 to schedule a consultation, or visit them online for a service overview.