Keep Your Family History Alive With These 2 Ideas

June 7, 2017

Have you ever looked at pictures taken from an important event and for the life of you, you couldn’t recall all of the names of the people in the photo, or the year that it was taken? This is why it is so important that you label all pictures and events with names and dates. Even label pictures that you are sure you will always remember. That way, you can ensure your family history will be kept alive for generations to come and even after you are gone.

1. Recording Your Family History as it Happens

Recording your memories as they happen is an important step towards keeping your family history alive. Be sure to keep mementos of important or memorable events to add to a scrapbook. If you are not a scrapbooker, just keep them in a sturdy “Memory Box/Chest.”

Items to keep include, but are not limited to the following:

  • entrance tickets
  • a flyer from the event
  • a program from the event
  • stickers, buttons or other souvenirs
  • postcards
  • family photos from the events
  • childhood artwork
  • school projects and report cards
  • favorite childhood toys

When your children find these items years later, they will have tangible reminders of the meaningful times you all spent together. They might not remember all aspects of the event, but they will remember how they felt that day. They will feel the love and family bond you all share.

2. Record What You Remember of the Past

Chances are that there are memories and photos of your family that lack context. Try to find out the stories behind these memories before they are lost. Record everything you can remember of your parents and grandparents, so your kids have something to look back on. Knowing who their family was and where they came from can be very meaningful as your children grow older. Find old pictures and write the story behind the moment on the back. Ask your parents to tell you about their childhood or better yet, to go through the old pictures with you. You might be surprised about what you learn!

Your family history is an important part of who you are. Make an effort to keep it alive so that those memories and lessons are preserved for years to come.

March 31, 2026
Planning ahead isn’t always something we naturally gravitate toward—especially when it comes to end-of-life decisions. It’s easy to put off, to say “someday,” or to assume there will always be more time. But preplanning your funeral or cremation arrangements is one of the most thoughtful and meaningful gifts you can leave behind for the people you love. What Is Preplanning? Preplanning is simply the process of making your final wishes known ahead of time. This can include decisions about burial or cremation, the type of service you’d like, music, readings, and even the small personal touches that reflect your life. It doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, even a simple plan written down can provide clarity and comfort when it’s needed most. Why More Families Are Choosing to Plan Ahead 1. It Relieves Emotional Burden When a loved one passes, families are often faced with dozens of decisions in a very short time, many of them while navigating deep grief. By preplanning, you remove that weight. Your family won’t have to wonder what you would have wanted, they’ll already know. 2. It Protects Your Family Financially Funeral costs can add up quickly depending on services selected. Preplanning gives you the opportunity to guarantee certain services and merchandise, avoid future inflation, and prevent overspending during emotional decision-making. 3. It Ensures Your Wishes Are Honored Every life is unique and every service should reflect that. When you plan ahead, you can choose burial or cremation, select meaningful music or readings, and include personal touches that tell your story. 4. It Gives You Time and Control Planning in advance allows you to make decisions thoughtfully and without pressure. There’s no urgency. No rushed decisions. Just clarity and confidence. 5. It Brings Peace of Mind Knowing everything is taken care of allows you to focus on what matters most: living fully and spending time with loved ones. Preplanning Doesn’t Have to Mean Prepaying You have options: document your wishes, set aside funds gradually, or explore pre-need plans or insurance options. Families are guided through these choices with no pressure—just support and information. A Simple Step Today Can Make All the Difference Tomorrow Preplanning is about easing the path for those you love. It gives them space to grieve, remember, and heal—without added stress. Ready to Learn More? Click here to get started. Whether you’re ready to start a plan or simply have questions, speaking with a preplanning specialist can help you explore your options in a comfortable, no-pressure setting. Because the greatest gift you can leave behind isn’t just memories—it’s peace of mind.
By Missy Hardenburg February 9, 2026
Finding Hope and Healing This Spring | Discover ways to cope with grief, honor loved ones, and find support this season. Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory serves families in Lynchburg, Bedford, Madison Heights, Moneta and Roanoke.
December 9, 2025
The vivid red cardinal holds a special place in the hearts of many, especially during the Christmas season. Its striking presence amidst the stillness of winter carries a powerful meaning for those grieving the loss of a loved one. This article explores the meaning of seeing a red cardinal , particularly at Christmas, and how this cherished bird symbolizes hope, comfort, and an enduring connection with those who have passed.
November 13, 2025
Transforming Memories into Timeless Treasures: Tharp Funeral Home Partners with Eterneva
October 30, 2025
A Sparkle That Honors a Life Well-Lived
July 8, 2025
“How can I feed them?” 23 food delivery ideas for the bereaved
July 8, 2025
Benefits of Travel Protection: Treasuring a Lifetime of Experiences
July 8, 2025
5 Things You Need to Know About Burial Planning
April 24, 2025
When our veterans are laid to rest, the ceremony that follows is a solemn and sacred tribute—a moment when we pause to honor a life lived in service to us.
March 28, 2025
When someone we love passes away, the world doesn’t just lose a person—we lose a part of ourselves, too. In the early days of grief, it can feel like the ground has shifted beneath our feet. The ache is deep, the absence deafening. People may offer comforting words – but anyone who has truly loved and lost knows: you don’t really move on . You move with it .