It used to be that announcing your loved one’s passing was done entirely by writing an obituary and having it printed in the local newspaper. While that is still a very common practice today, many people are also turning to digital ways of remembering and honoring their loved one. With everyone having such a social presence online it just makes sense to include this space. When you are talking to providers of cremation services in Elba, NY. about your loved one’s services, don’t overlook the importance of a pre-plan online tribute and the healing it can help provide.

Personal Social Media Accounts

Most likely your loved one had at least one social media account. These accounts can be used as a wonderful memorial. Friends can visit the account, share memories and photos, comment, and support one another through this difficult time.

There are a few things to note about these accounts. What you can access, and the way you can access the account will differ depending on the platform as well as any settings your loved one might have made.

For example, with Facebook and Instagram it is possible for a user to designate another person as a “legacy”. This person named will have the ability to log in and have full functions of the account. Other platforms may keep the account active and allow people to post to the account, but not allow other functions such as deleting posts, commenting or posting as the user.

To know what functions the social media platform can offer, you will need to contact the specific platform directly. You may also need a copy of the death certificate, your identification, proof of relationship, or other documents.

Memorial Websites

If you cannot access your loved one’s social media accounts, or you would like an option that typically has more functions, then you would want to look into a memorial website. These are becoming increasingly popular and can be found to include various functions. Some of the options they feature can include:



• Guest Book – This is just like a paper guest book but it’s online. Guests visit the site and can write their tribute in the book.
• Virtual Services– You can use the site to livestream the funeral or memorial service so that those who cannot attend physically can still attend virtually. This is also a god option if you ware wanting to save money as hosting a virtual service can be less expensive.
• Invitations– These sites can offer functions that allow you to invite guests and have the RSVP directly on the site. This helps in keeping track with the number of guests.

You may find sites that offer one or all of these features. Typically, the more features, the more expensive. If you are wanting to save money, you can choose a simple site with just a guest book as these sites are normally free.

Final Thoughts

While you may still want to have an obituary printed in the paper after your loved one’s cremation services in Elba, NY, including a way to pay tribute to your loved one online is a nice addition. With the internet providing a way for everyone to come together, no matter what their location, it creates a supportive space for people to connect and pay tribute to your loved one.