Keepsakes and Memorial Options for Families
When a loved one passes away, many families find comfort in creating a lasting reminder of their life. Beyond the funeral service itself, keepsakes and memorials provide a way to cherish memories and honour their legacy. At Stephen M. Godber Funeral Directors, we understand how important these personal touches can be, and we’re here to guide families through the many meaningful options available.
Why Keepsakes and Memorials Matter
Keepsakes help families:
- Feel a continued sense of closeness to their loved one
- Celebrate unique aspects of their personality and life
- Create tangible reminders for future generations
- Provide comfort during moments of grief
Whether traditional or modern, memorials ensure a loved one’s memory lives on.
Popular Memorial Options for Families
Headstones and Grave Memorials
One of the most traditional ways to honour a life is with a headstone or grave marker. Families often choose designs that reflect personal faith, values, or achievements.
Ashes Interment or Scattering
For families who choose cremation, there are many meaningful ways to lay ashes to rest — whether through burial in a cemetery, scattering in a favourite place, or interment in a memorial garden.
Memorial Jewellery
Cremation ashes can be placed into jewellery such as pendants, rings, or bracelets. This offers a discreet, personal way of keeping a loved one close every day.
Keepsake Urns and Miniature Containers
In addition to traditional urns, small keepsake urns allow family members to each hold a portion of ashes. These can be displayed at home or kept privately.
Memorial Benches and Plaques
Many families choose a memorial bench or plaque in a meaningful location — such as a park, garden, or community space — where people can sit, reflect, and remember.
Memory Books and Photo Tributes
Gathering photographs, letters, and stories into a memory book helps preserve precious moments. These are especially meaningful for younger generations who may not have known the person well.
Living Memorials
For those who love nature, planting a tree or creating a small garden in memory of a loved one provides a lasting, growing tribute.
Personalising Memorials
Memorials can be as unique as the person being remembered. Families may choose:
- Favourite colours in floral arrangements
- Designs or engravings that reflect hobbies or passions
- Inscriptions with personal messages or favourite quotes
At Stephen M. Godber Funeral Directors, we help families explore all available options so they can choose something that truly reflects their loved one’s life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Memorials and Keepsakes
What can be done with ashes after cremation?
Ashes can be kept in an urn, divided into keepsake urns, placed in memorial jewellery, interred in a cemetery, or scattered in a meaningful location.
Can memorials be customised?
Yes. Headstones, jewellery, and even keepsake urns can be personalised with engravings, colours, and designs that reflect individuality.
Do I have to choose a traditional memorial?
Not at all. Many families now prefer alternatives such as planting trees, creating memory books, or choosing jewellery keepsakes.
How soon can a memorial be arranged?
Some keepsakes can be created quickly, while headstones and grave memorials may take longer due to design and installation processes. Your funeral director will guide you through the timings.
Helping Families Create Lasting Tributes
At Stephen M. Godber Funeral Directors, we believe that every family deserves the opportunity to honour their loved one in a way that feels meaningful and personal. Whether you prefer a traditional headstone, a piece of memorial jewellery, or a living tribute, our caring team will help you choose the right keepsake to keep their memory alive.
