When a person passes away, it’s often difficult to find the right words to comfort a grieving family. One of the most meaningful ways to show support is by offering a thoughtful gift to express your sympathy. Here are some of the best gifts for grieving family members to show your support.
List of Sympathy Gifts
- Gift basket filled with food and comfort items
- Memory keepsakes
- Engraved jewelry
- Ornament
- Customized candle
- Journal
- Plush blanket
- Plants
- Memorial tree
- Contribution to a charity in the deceased’s name
Bereavement Gift Ideas
It’s important to consider the recipient’s preferences and situation before giving any gift. An appropriate gift for one person, such as one with religious connotations, may not be appreciated by others. Even gifts of food may not be appreciated if the recipient has dietary restrictions or strong preferences.
Here are some ideas for bereavement gifts – beyond the traditional flowers.
1. Sympathy gift baskets
A sympathy gift basket is one of the most common and appreciated gifts for grieving families. In times of grief, families often don’t have the energy to focus on basic needs like preparing meals, so having a basket of ready-to-eat items can be incredibly helpful.
These baskets can be filled with an assortment of comforting items, such as snacks, gourmet foods, and teas. You can also customize the basket to include breakfast items or healthy snacks.
Some companies specialize in creating customized care packages with thoughtful messages to provide comfort during difficult times.
2. Memory keepsake
Personalized gifts such as photo frames with a favorite photo, engraved jewelry, or a memorial ornament allow the family to hold onto a tangible memory of their loved one.
Consider purchasing a customized pendant engraved with the deceased’s name or initials or creating a photo book or album that highlights moments of the loved one’s life.
These keepsakes can be cherished for years, offering a sense of closeness and remembrance.
3. Customized candle
Lighting a candle is often seen as a symbolic act of remembrance and reflection. A customized memorial candle with the name of the deceased, a meaningful quote, or a personal message can serve as a calming tribute. This gift allows the family to light the candle in honor of their loved one during moments of reflection or significant anniversaries. Candles with calming scents like lavender or vanilla can also provide a sense of peace during times of sadness.
4. Grief journal
Many people find writing to be a therapeutic outlet during times of grief. A grief journal provides a safe space for family members to express their emotions, thoughts, and memories of someone they recently lost. You can find journals designed for grief support, often featuring guided prompts or inspirational quotes. These journals encourage the grieving process and help family members reflect on their feelings and memories.
Gifting a journal is a gentle way to provide emotional support and encourage healing.
5. Donation in the name of the deceased
For families who want to create a legacy for their loved ones, a donation made in their name can be an incredibly thoughtful gesture. This could be to a charity or organization that was meaningful to the deceased or one that reflects their passions, such as a donation to an animal rescue, environmental cause, or health-related charity.
Making a contribution in honor of their loved one can provide a sense of purpose and help the family feel that their loved one’s memory is living on through the good that their donation is doing.
6. Comforting blanket or throw
A soft, comforting blanket or throw can provide warmth and solace during times of grief. A plush blanket can be a reminder that they are wrapped in love and support from their friends and family. Some blankets can even be personalized with comforting messages or the deceased’s name, adding a more personal touch.
7. Plants or memorial trees
Sending a plant or planting a memorial tree in honor of the deceased is a beautiful, living tribute that symbolizes life and renewal. Many families find comfort in having a living memorial to their loved one that they can care for over the years. Indoor plants can also bring life and positive energy to a home, serving as a gentle reminder of the loved one they have lost. For those with outdoor space, planting a tree in memory of their loved ones can become a place of reflection and peace in the coming years.
Offering a thoughtful gift to a grieving family is more than just a gesture; it’s a way of showing love, care, and support when words may not be enough.
One of the best gifts you can give to your own family is a pre-planned funeral. Do you need help planning for cremation services? Contact Smart Cremation. We offer compassionate direct cremation services in Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, and Washington.
