Throwing out dried-up flowers after a funeral always makes me sad. It feels a little like losing my loved one all over again. I've put together a list of gifts that don't get thrown away after a few days. I've included some of my stained glass pieces given as memorial gifts.
A quick read from Southern Living Magazine.
These Touching Sympathy Gifts Are Thoughtful Alternatives To Flowers
The Dove of Peace with Olive Leaves is a beautiful memorial gift. Stained glass never fades, making this suncatcher a lasting tribute. A Thomas Critchlow Art Glass TCAG original. Affiliate Link
Dove with Olive Branch Suncatcher
A thoughtful note, a handmade card, the gift of your time and support!
Handmade Cards
Stained Glass Guardian Angel Suncatchers are available in custom or stock colors. If you have a special request, click on over to the website and tap that “contact maker” button! Stained glass sun catchers never fade, making them a lasting tribute. A Thomas Critchlow Art Glass TCAG original. Affiliate Link
Stained Glass Guardian Angel
Windchimes are a beautiful alternative to flowers! Available in lots of sizes, shapes, colors, themes AND scales. Affiliate link
Outdoor Windchimes
“When cardinals appear, loved ones are near.” Cardinals are popular choices for sympathy and memorial gifts. Stained glass never fades, making this suncatcher a lasting tribute. A Thomas Critchlow Art Glass TCAG original. Affiliate Link
Red Cardinal Stained Glass Suncatcher
This is a great introduction to grief with links to other resources. One thing I heard a lot as an RN was "My kids say I've got to get over this". We all grieve in our own way and own time. Knowing when your loved on need your love and support, an...
Coping With Grief and Loss
A flower but one that won't fade! Can be added to a traditional floral gift for an extra special gift. A Thomas Critchlow Art Glass TCAG original. Affiliate Link
White Lily Stained Glass Suncatcher
When my father passed, we were so focused on our initial grief and them all the planning that has to happen after a loved one dies. Having something healthy and easy to warm can really reduce the burden! Free sites like MealTrain can help coordinate all the details with very little effort from the family.
MealTrain.com
One of the best gifts I received during chemo and radiation was a super soft blanket. It was like a hug every time I used it. Because you can find them patterns and colors to match any decor, they are easy to gift! Affiliate link
Blankets & Throws - T.J.Maxx
Stained Glass Church Window Suncatchers are available in custom or stock colors. If you have a special request, click on over to the website and tap that “contact maker” button! Stained glass sun catchers never fade, making them a lasting tribute. A ...
Gothic Church Window Stained Glass Suncatcher
Sometimes, you need a distraction, a way to push the sadness away for a little while. Choose something in their favorite genre, or maybe something altogether different! A favorite or new favorite author. Even puzzle books or activity books can be a relief. Affiliate link
Books
Fused Glass Rainbow Pet Memorial Suncatchers are available in cat, dog, or rounds. If you have a special request, click on over to the website and tap that “contact maker” button! Stained glass sun catchers never fade, making them a lasting tribute. A Thomas Critchlow Art Glass TCAG original. Affiliate Link
Rainbow Pet Memorial Fused Glass Suncatcher
A photo books is a very thoughtful gift and a wonderful way to memorialize a life well lived. We've used Shutterfly for years. It's nice to be able to order multiple copies or replace damaged one - Like when my Grandma dropped hers in the snow! Affiliate link
Memorial Photo Book
Miniature Dove Plant Stakes are a thoughtful addition to a traditional potted plant. and are available in custom. If you have a special request, click on over to the website and tap that “contact maker” button! Stained glass sun catchers never fade, ...
White Dove Plant Stake
Because perennial return, your gift will bring joy every year. Be sure to check you USDA Zone! Affiliate link