flowers with a card


Written by Jenny Goldade


Whether you live out of state or there’s severe weather, unfortunately, sometimes there are circumstances that prevent you from attending a funeral service.


However, there are ways that you can still show your support for the grieving family.


Let’s go over a few kind gestures that can help those who are grieving honor their loved one.


1. Ask If They’re Live Streaming the Funeral Service.

First off, you can check with the family to see if they’re doing a live stream of the funeral service. This way, you can still virtually attend the funeral or watch it at a later time.


If they aren’t live streaming the funeral, there are still other kind gestures you can do to show your support.


2. Send Flowers.

Although it may seem cliché, sending flowers is a simple, yet meaningful gesture. In fact, researchers found that flowers improve our moods, which can help those who are grieving in their grief journeys. You can deliver them to the funeral and include a note to express your condolences and sadness for not being able to attend.


3. Mail a Card.

Another simple, yet thoughtful option is to mail the grieving family a handwritten note. You can express your sympathy for their loss and share fond memories you have with the deceased. Check out this article for tips on what to say in sympathy cards. Or, if you’re debating on sending a social media or text message, check out these condolence tips first.


4. Make Meals.

Making the family some homemade meals can help them as they’re grieving and adjusting to life without their loved one’s physical presence. Or offer to go grocery shopping for them or help them order their groceries online and pick them up for them.


5. Give a Monetary Donation.

Giving a monetary donation to the family can help them with the funeral expenses. Additionally, they may need help with a memorial fund, medical bills, and everyday expenses for things like groceries and other bills and expenses.


6. Check in on Them.

After the funeral and well afterward, you should still check in on them and see how they’re doing. A phone call or an in-person visit can bring them some comfort. Just make sure that you ask beforehand if you plan on doing an in-person visit. Also, you should still invite them to events. They may not be ready to participate, but they’ll appreciate that you thought of them.


7. Create a Memento.

Creating a memento is a creative way to show you care. For example, if you’re an avid crafter, make the grieving family memory bears. Even if you’re not very crafty, you can make something simple like decorated picture frames. Or, you can order custom-made memorial gifts, such as memorial keychains engraved with their loved one’s name.


8. Volunteer with Them.

If the family is volunteering at a cause in honor of their loved one, ask if you can join them. Getting involved in your community is a great way to make a positive difference and honor a life.


What other ways can you still show your support if you can’t attend the funeral service? Share them with us in the comments below!