Create a lasting tribute

Sheila’s story

Sheila’s tribute to her mum, Minnie (Wrightson), began with a funeral collection and Sheila’s own in memory donations. Sharp-witted, intelligent, and a talented singer, Minnie found her many interests hard to maintain after developing age-related macular degeneration. Reading, golf and doing the crossword became too difficult. The most devastating thing was not being able to recognise her loved ones’ faces. “Macular disease really messed up her life,” says Sheila. Minnie’s fund continues to grow as Sheila fundraises through giving themed talks on RMS Titanic to clubs and community groups.

Using your tribute page

You can set up a tribute page before your loved one's funeral, share the link in the Order of Service, or send it to those unable to attend. If you create it later, we can help you add any funeral gifts.

Over time, your page can become a lasting space to remember your loved one—on birthdays, anniversaries, or whenever you choose. You can add photos, messages, music, and donations at any point.

When it feels right, you or your family may also wish to fundraise in their memory. If so, a JustGiving page or other fundraising efforts can be linked directly to your tribute.

This is your space, to use in whatever way feels right—for as long as you wish—to honour someone special.

Guidance on how to create a tribute

Setting up your tribute is really simple and a meaningful way to celebrate the life of someone special. We have included some details to get you started.

Things to think about before you start

Before creating your tribute page, it’s helpful to consider a few details that will make the page personal and easy for others to find and engage with.

1. Choose a title

Think about the title you’d like to give your tribute page. Keep it short and clear, eg. “A tribute to...” or “Jane’s page/fund.”

2. Add a heading under the title

This can be slightly longer and more descriptive, eg. “Dedicated to the memory of Jane Smith.”

3. Include their common name or nickname

Use the name most people knew your loved one by. This helps friends and family easily find the tribute page to share messages or make donations.

4. Write a short tribute

You can describe your loved one in your own words, such as:

• Where they were born or lived
• Their hobbies, interests, or values

Note: A default message is provided:
“This site is a tribute to [First Name Last Name]. [He/She] is much loved and will always be remembered.” You can use this as-is or edit it later.

5. Pick a page theme

There are several design options to help reflect your loved one’s personality or interests, such as 

• Travel
• Gardening
• Sports

6. Prepare photos

Decide which photos you'd like to include. You can upload them directly from your device.

7. Set privacy preferences

• Private: Only you can view the page.
• Public: Others can view, share memories, and leave messages.

Important: If you plan to ask for donations, your page must be public.

8. Choose charities for donations

You can support the Macular Society and any other charities that were important to your loved one. Multiple charities can be selected during setup.

9. Add personal details (optional)

You can choose to display your loved one’s date and place of birth and the year of their death.

• Enter these under the 'Personal information' section.

10. Include funeral information (optional)

If you’d like to share details of the funeral service:

• Have the date, time, and venue ready to include on the page.

Once you’ve considered the above, you’re ready to begin creating your tribute. It only takes a few minutes, and you can return later to make edits or add more details.

We're were to help

We hope you find setting up your page to be simple and straightforward. If you have any questions, we're here to help so please do give us a call on 01264 322 410 or email inmemory@macularsociety.org

Search for an existing tribute fund

Use the link below to find an existing tribute fund by entering your loved one’s name.