When someone dies, you might worry that, over time, you’ll start to forget them. This is why we have come up with different ways to honour the memory of them. Here are five ideas for long-lasting and meaningful tributes so that their legacy remains forever, and you can keep them in your mind and close to your heart always.

1. Plant a tree

A popular and environmentally friendly way to have a permanent reminder of your deceased loved one is to plant a tree. This could be at your home, the home of a relative or land that you have gotten permission to grow one. It could be their favourite species or one that has significance to you that you can nurture and spend time with to make you feel close to this person. This is a touching tribute that will last for generations. 

2. Get a memorial bench

Did the person who has passed love to spend time outdoors in nature reserves or a local park? Many people like to turn outdoor seating into memorial benches, each bearing a plaque with the name of the deceased and a sentence about their life or enjoyment of that area. If you want to go this route, you should contact your local municipality or SANParks, which oversees these benches. Then you can go and sit there and think about this special person.

3. Erect a tombstone

One of the oldest ways that people have been memorialising the dead is by erecting a tombstone. These display their name, birth and death dates and sometimes a quote or religious verse that meant something to them or is significant to the family. At 21st Century Funeral Services, having personalised tombstones made and installed is one of our many services and, with so many styles to choose from, you’re bound to find something that speaks to you to create a lasting tribute.

4. Commission a portrait

When someone who is a regular feature in your life passes away, it’s normal to miss their presence. While you can’t bring back their personality, you can immortalise their image by commissioning an artist to paint a portrait of them to hang in your home. Alternatively, you can go through photographs of them, pick out your favourites and turn them into a collage to frame and hang up where you’ll see it often as a constant reminder of that special person.

5. Share their stories

Everyone’s life is made up of interesting stories, and having them retold is something you can often miss when someone is gone. Keep their memory alive by talking about them and sharing their tales with friends and family members. If a deceased person was an incredible cook, you can also share their most beloved recipes. Compile their greatest kitchen hits and have them made into a recipe book so that these memorable dishes can be enjoyed for generations to come.