baby holding his father's hand

Service of Remembrance

Questions?
Phone Number
Call 434.924.2642

Held annually since 1995, the UVA Health Children’s Service of Remembrance celebrates the lives of children. We gather together to honor their courage. We remember the love they shared with their families and the team members at UVA Health Children’s.

Who Can Attend the Service?

Parents, family members, and friends of UVA Health Children’s patients who have died within the past two years, either in the hospital or at home, may attend.

The 2023 Service of Remembrance

This year, the service will again be held virtually. Join us on October 14, 2023, at 12 p.m. (noon) to attend the Service of Remembrance.

The Caring Cradle at UVA Health comes stocked with memory-making kits with teddy bears, boxes and other items.

Honor Their Legacy

It's incredibly hard when a loved one is struggling with their health. You can help bring comfort and support to other families facing pediatric health issues. Your contribution helps us do research and provide care for our smallest patients in need.

Make a Gift
Resources for You & Your Family
carnations from the service of remembrance

Helping Children Cope

Trying to help your surviving children grieve can feel challenging. You are also grieving. And children understand death and process loss differently than adults.

These resources can help.

Books for preschool-age and early school-age:

  • "I Miss You, A First Look at Death," Pat Thomas
  • "The Invisible String," Patrice Karst
  • "The Rabbit Listened," Cori Doerrfeld

Workbook for ages 8-12:

  • "When Someone Very Special Dies: Children Can Learn to Cope with Grief"

"When Families Grieve" Sesame Street online toolkit