We’ve been paying tribute to Jim Turnbull, who passed away two years ago today.
Jim, a proud husband, father and grandfather, led our family funeral business for many years, which has been a fixture in North Shields for more than 200 years.
His career saw him take over the family funeral business, E Turnbull & Son, which is based on Albion Road, at the time he was the fifth generation of the family to run the business and he was well known in the local business and sporting communities. He retired in 2018 and handed over the reins to his daughter Jane Broadhead.
We all love and miss you Jim, and in his memory we’d like to share a few ideas on how to mark a loved one’s death anniversary.
We have listed 10 ideas to mark your loved one’s death anniversary
Losing a loved one is a difficult experience that can leave us with a heavy heart. Even after they have passed, there are many events that can trigger memories of them. Some of these events are more personal and may not be as obvious as a wedding anniversary or a birthday. Personal memories can be triggered by a song, a place that was visited together, or a shared experience that holds a special meaning. Coping with the loss of a loved one is a process that takes time, and it’s important to allow ourselves to feel the emotions that come with it. However, remembering the good times and cherishing the memories we have can help us find comfort and peace.
What is a death anniversary?
An anniversary, also known as an ‘angelversary’ or ‘sadisversary’, is a significant date that marks the passing of a loved one. Unlike a wedding anniversary, which is a joyous occasion, commemorating the anniversary of a loved one’s passing can be a sombre and emotional day. However, many people find that marking this occasion is an essential part of the grieving process. Although it may be a painful date, it also presents an opportunity to reflect on happy memories and celebrate the life of the person who has passed.
Grief is a deeply personal experience, and each individual copes with it in their own unique way. What may be effective for one person may not necessarily be helpful for another. While some individuals may treat the day of their loved one’s passing as any other day, others may find it difficult to ignore the anniversary altogether. For many, the first anniversary of their loved one’s passing can be particularly challenging, as it serves as a stark reminder of their loss.
Honouring the life of a loved one is a deeply personal and meaningful experience. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to commemorating their memory. However, if you are looking for inspiration to mark their anniversary, we have compiled a list of ten special ways to honour their legacy.
These ideas range from creating a memorial garden to organising a charity event in their name. Each suggestion is unique and can be tailored to suit your loved one’s personality and interests. By taking the time to remember and celebrate their life, you are keeping their memory alive and ensuring that their legacy lives on.
How to Celebrate a Loved One’s Anniversary
1. Revisit a special place
One idea to celebrate the anniversary is to revisit a special place that holds sentimental value to both of you. This could be a cosy restaurant or coffee shop, a serene beach, or a picturesque park. By returning to this cherished location, you can relive fond memories and feel a deeper connection. Whether you choose to visit the special place alone or with loved ones, it is a beautiful way to honour your relationship and the experiences you have shared together. Take the time to reminisce about the moments that made this place so special, and create new memories that will last a lifetime.
2. Write a letter, song or poem
One way to express your emotions and thoughts is through writing, which can be a therapeutic outlet. Revisiting a special place can inspire you to write a letter, poem, or song to someone who has passed away or is no longer in your life. This can be a way to feel like you are communicating with them directly and updating them on your life. You can share memories and express how much you miss them.
It’s important to note that you don’t have to be a professional writer to do this. Your writing doesn’t have to be shared with anyone else, and you may even want to revisit your words in the future. The act of writing can be a healing process and a way to honour the memory of someone special.
3. Visit their final resting place
One of the most time-honoured ways to celebrate the memory of a loved one is by visiting their final resting place and paying your respects. If your loved one was buried, you may choose to visit their grave, bringing flowers and taking a moment to reflect.
Alternatively, if your loved one’s ashes were scattered in a location that held special meaning to them, visiting that place could be a meaningful way to spend the day with others who also cherished them. You might even consider organising a picnic in this spot, complete with your loved one’s favourite foods and drinks. This can be a beautiful way to celebrate their life and the memories you shared together.
4. Light a candle for them
Lighting a candle in memory of someone is a time-honoured tradition that can be observed in a place of worship or at home. It is a simple yet meaningful gesture that can bring comfort and solace to those who are grieving. Consider coordinating with friends and family members to light candles simultaneously, creating a shared moment of remembrance. Despite its simplicity, this act holds great value and can serve as a powerful symbol of love and respect for the departed.
5. Listen to their favourite music or watch their favourite film
To honour your loved one, consider playing their favourite song or album. If the two of you shared a special song, take a moment to listen to it together. You could even request that a specific song be played on the radio in their memory. If music wasn’t their passion, consider watching their favourite film or an episode of their preferred TV program instead. While it may not be your cup of tea, sharing in their interests can bring comfort and create a bonding experience with friends and family.
6. Support a charity
If your beloved held a particular charity close to their heart or received care from a hospice before passing away, you can honour their memory by supporting the same charity or one that offers assistance to others. You can volunteer with the charity that was significant to them or participate in a sponsored event to raise funds for a cause that was dear to their heart.
Additionally, you can donate some of your loved one’s clothing or belongings to a charity. By supporting a charity that was meaningful to your loved one, you can keep their memory alive and make a positive impact on the world.
7. Create a photo memory book
One way to cherish the memory of a loved one is to create a photo memory book. You can ask your friends and family to send you copies of photos they have of your loved one, which you can then print and compile into a beautiful book. By gathering photos from various sources, you can create a comprehensive collection that spans the different stages of their life.
Moreover, this idea can also be extended to others who are struggling with the loss of a loved one. By giving them a photo memory book, you can help them keep the memory of their loved one alive and provide them with a tangible reminder of the good times they shared. It is a thoughtful gesture that can bring comfort and solace during difficult times.
8. Plant a tree
Honouring a loved one by planting a tree is a beautiful way to create a lasting tribute. As the tree grows and flourishes, it can serve as a source of comfort and a reminder of cherished memories. If a tree isn’t feasible, consider planting your loved one’s favourite flower in a pot and keeping it at home. Alternatively, a rosebush in your garden or a vegetable garden can also be a meaningful way to honour their memory. Whatever you choose, the act of planting and nurturing new life can bring solace and healing during difficult times.
9. Gather friends and family
Losing a spouse, partner, or friend can be an incredibly isolating and lonely experience. However, instead of spending the day in solitude, it may be beneficial to spend it with loved ones. Consider organising a gathering such as a barbecue, restaurant outing, picnic, or attending an event together to reminisce and reflect on the memories shared with the departed. This could be a one-time event or an annual tradition to commemorate their life. Additionally, raising a glass in their honour with friends and family can be a meaningful way to pay tribute to their memory.
10. Plan a quiet day of reflection
It’s hard to believe that a year has passed since your loss, but the memories and emotions may still feel fresh. As the anniversary approaches, you may find yourself experiencing a resurgence of grief.
To help you cope, it can be beneficial to plan a day of reflection and remembrance. This could involve activities such as reading, journaling, exercising, or simply taking time to relax. It’s important to do what feels right for you, even if that means avoiding large gatherings or events that other family members may be attending.
If you feel that taking the day off work would be helpful, don’t hesitate to make arrangements. Remember, this is a time for you to honour your loved one and take care of yourself.
Bereavement Care Line
Each person’s bereavement journey is unique and there’s no right or wrong way to grieve. If you feel that you are struggling following the death of someone close, please contact us and we will be able to assist in getting you the support you need.
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Monday to Friday
9am to 9pm
0800 917 7224
