Celebrating the Passing of a Long Life

After a long life lived, losing an elderly loved one can be devastating. Your whole life, they have been there for you, and now they are gone. But after a long life lived, it is also an opportunity to celebrate their legacy. This article will discuss how funeral and memorial services for the eldest of your family can be a celebration of life, rather than a truly somber event.

Leaving a Legacy Behind

The average life expectancy in the US is 78. After a loved one has lived for many decades, they likely left behind a long and fulfilling life. While it can be hard to lose someone who had been a part of your whole life, it is important to appreciate the impact they had on those around them. The legacy of your loved one’s life will live on long after their passing. 

Why Celebration is Important

Celebrating their life is an important part of appreciating their impact on you. Look back on fond memories of your loved one, and try to find the ones that help you appreciate your time with them. The time you had with them was precious, and you should cherish it. Looking at the beautiful moments during your time of grief can be vital to the healing process. 

An End to Their Suffering

While this is not always the case, it can be important to remember the hardships of your elderly loved one before they passed. Many elderly individuals suffer from pain, memory loss, and worse. If your loved one lived through many hardships, finding solace that their struggles have ended can be a comfort. 

Support From Those Around You

Throughout their life, your loved one likely brought many people together. Generations of a family brought together by this individual. Finding comfort in mourning together is a major part of the grieving process. Catch up with distant relatives, and share memories and hugs. Funerals can be painful, but they also help loved ones reconnect through shared loss. 

The author of this post is not a professional therapist or counselor. For assistance in finding a grief counselor that is right for you, there are several resources out there. For our Grief Resource Center, written by Dr. Bill Webster, click here. 
For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.