Honoring a Loved One on the Anniversary of Their Passing

The anniversary of a loved one’s death can be challenging, especially during the first few years after the loss. Finding the perfect way to pay tribute to someone who played such a big role in our lives can feel overwhelming. Whether you’ve chosen to honor their life on the anniversary of their passing or on another meaningful date—like their birthday—there are many thoughtful and unique ways to celebrate their memory.

We’ve put together five of our favorite ways to pay tribute to a loved one, to help you begin your journey of remembrance and healing.

1. Try Something New

Though it may not be easy, consider turning the anniversary into something positive. Did your loved one have a bucket list or favorite hobbies like golfing, painting, or volunteering?

Participating in those activities—or checking off one of their bucket list items—can be a beautiful way to bring back memories and honor the moments when they were happiest.

2. Write a Letter or Poem

Writing can be a powerful way to process thoughts and feelings that are sometimes hard to say out loud.

Each year, consider writing a letter or poem to your loved one. Over time, reading what you’ve written can reveal how your grief has evolved and how your connection continues to grow.

You may choose to:

• Keep your writing private and personal

• Place it somewhere special, like their favorite spot

• Share it on a grief blog or support forum

3. Walk Down Memory Lane

Gathering with family or friends on the anniversary of a loved one’s passing can bring comfort. Sharing stories, flipping through photo albums, or making a memory book together creates space for reflection and connection.

Need help starting conversations? Consider using a list of memory prompts or storytelling questions to spark shared moments of remembrance.

4. Light a Candle

Lighting a candle is a timeless way to honor someone’s memory. This simple ritual expresses what words often cannot.

Choose a scented candle your loved one enjoyed, or a scent that brings back memories. As the flame flickers, it serves as a quiet moment to reflect and feel close to them.

5. Express Your Love with Flowers

There are nearly 400,000 flower types in the world—each with their own symbolic meaning. A single bouquet can speak volumes.

You might choose to:

• Place flowers at your loved one’s resting place

• Display them in your home on the anniversary

• Select blooms that held special meaning to them

Understanding the language of flowers is a heartfelt way to express emotion and remembrance.

Your Tribute, Your Way

Did one of these ideas resonate with you? If not, that’s okay. Grief is personal, and so is remembrance. What matters most is finding a tribute that feels right for you and your family.

If you need support, our website offers grief resources, and our team is always here to help.