My Memory Shelf

I began making this memory shelf a few years back, whenever I moved into my current home. Over the years, I have added different things on the shelf that my family liked. Additionally, I decided to add different snapshots and pictures of each family member that I have lost over the years.

Losing Papa

First, my maternal grandfather “Papa” passed away in June 2007. This was my first final goodbye which tore my heart out for many years. I felt so sad, so I wrote him letters and talked to him a lot in my mind. I still miss his voice and his smile, which always made my day.

Losing Granny

About five or six years later, my maternal grandmother “Granny”passed away too. My grandparents raised me all my life so that really hurt losing them. They are still very special to me since they were like my father and mother.

Losing Uncle Chris

A couple years later, my uncle Chis passed on as well. He was affectionately named “Bump”. Him and I were really close and spent time together whenever he visited. I miss his advice and often wonder what he’d say when I stressed.

Losing Thomas

Next, I lost my beloved twin brother Thomas, exactly three years ago. Currently, I have his ashes on my memorial shelf which I thankful to have. This was a devastating loss for me and my little brother. We lost our big brother whom we both adored.

Losing Momma

Exactly a month later, I lost my mom Susan and I was devastated losing her so fast. I really miss her so much every day because we talked on the phone almost every day. I have half of my mom’s ashes on my memorial shelf and my little brother has the other half on his memorial shelf.

Building the Memorial Shelf

I picked out a nice shelf and began adding pictures of the family members I had lost. I added dolls for granny and mom, as well as Papa’s favorite hat. Recently, I added the ashes of my twin brother and my mom on different shelves. Each shelf is decorated with different knickknacks and framed pictures. I truly miss them each of them every day, but I am so fortunate to have been loved by them as well.

Do you have a memorial shelf in your home? Tell us about yours.

Copyright 2025

Crystal Amon