The phrase signifies a request made to mourners at a funeral or memorial service. Instead of sending floral tributes to the deceased’s family, individuals are encouraged to offer an alternative form of remembrance, typically a donation to a designated charity or cause. This expression is found within obituaries and memorial announcements, serving as a gentle suggestion for expressing sympathy in a way the deceased or their family would prefer.
The practice stems from a desire to honor the deceased’s values or passions, or to support an organization they held dear. Financial contributions directed toward a specific cause can have a more lasting impact than flowers, providing resources for research, care, or advocacy. Historically, this preference reflects a shift away from traditional expressions of grief towards more personalized and meaningful tributes. It also acknowledges that some families may find receiving a large number of floral arrangements overwhelming or impractical.
