As Memorial Day approaches, the nation takes time to remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. For many, this means visiting cemeteries, attending parades, or participating in other patriotic events. But for others, a more personal way to commemorate fallen loved ones is through memorial tattoos.
These tattoos serve as a permanent reminder of the impact loved ones have had and can be a powerful way to pay tribute on this solemn holiday. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at moving memorial tattoos and the stories behind them.
One of the most popular style of memorial tattoos that really resonates for Memorial Day is of The Fallen Soldier. There are so many tattoos out there based on the memorial. It’s easy to understand why.
Many memorial tattoos honor loved ones and even though they are not expressly about Memorial Day, these meaningful designs often include imagery that honors their service. An American flag along with tags are paired together for this person’s tribute to dad.
Tags like these are so popular for memorial tattoos because they add a personal touch. It’s interesting that this person chose a black and white flag with the red and blue swimming around it.
“Land of the free because of the brave,” this memorial tattoo says. It feels like one of the most appropriate tattoos for Memorial Day. Next up, we will take a look at equally as personal memorial tattoos that do not have the patriotic overtones.
As you might imagine, hearts are huge among memorial tattoos as they help us express love for a lost one. An anatomical heart has been employed here, but a simple heart shape will do the trick as well.
If you’re not sure about the subject matter for your memorial tattoo, think of plants and animals that your loved one had a fondness for. We find a moose with some floral accents that look great here.
Food is one way right to the heart so don’t count out favorite dishes, candies, and the like for your memorial tattoo. This person’s grandpa clearly had affinity for some instant ramen noodles.
In addition to tags, badges can also serve as great imagery for memorial tattoos. This person’s father was a patrolman and it is great to see that reflected in this design.
“Forever fishing,” this image says with a heart formed from a fishing rod. Things you loved doing with your loved one or activities they were passionate about are worthy of your consideration when trying to come up with your memorial tattoo.
Angel wings are extremely popular among memorial tattoos. These spread over the word “mom” with dates. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel if a classic motif speaks to you.
Family photos like this are really popular among memorial tattoos. These images often remind us of good times spent with loved ones. What’s not to like about that?
“See you there, Mommy and Mac,” this landscape tattoo says. Think of places you loved vacationing together or even your backyard. Places can evoke strong emotions and help us feel connected.
Similar to the police badge, object that help tell your loved one’s story are popular. This handsome hammer memorial tattoo is paired with a chrysanthemum for good measure.
Things that don’t immediately scream memorial tattoo are also encouraged. This person got this slice of tree in honor of their grandfather. We wonder what the story behind it is.
Wow! We have a gorgeous mandala-style tattoo here with a butterfly in the middle. “In Loving Memory,” it says along with the word “Mum” and dates. This is so meditative and handsome.
Finally, we have a big piece that says “Rest Easy” with the late person’s name also included. A ship in a bottle acts as a warm reminder.
As we reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day, it’s important to remember that every fallen hero has a story and loved ones left behind who are forever impacted by their sacrifice. Memorial tattoos provide a way to keep the stories of our loved ones alive or to honor the memory of those who have given everything for their country. By wearing these permanent reminders, we demonstrate that their memories will not be forgotten and their sacrifices will always be appreciated.
For even more memorial tattoos, keep reading. We have dozens more touching designs to share with you.
When you lose someone close to you, it can feel like you’ve lost a piece of your heart. Finding ways to commemorate their life and honor their memory can be an important part of the grieving process. For many people, getting a tattoo that symbolizes their loved one’s life, personality, or spirit is a meaningful way to do just that.
In this post, we will be exploring 25 RIP tattoo ideas designed to pay tribute to those we’ve lost. From images of an angel or a loved one’s portrait to meaningful quotes and song lyrics, these tattoo ideas celebrate the lives of those who have passed on and offer a permanent reminder of their love and impact. So if you’re looking for inspiration for a tribute tattoo, read on for some heartfelt and meaningful ideas.
Although a touch morbid, this beautiful RIP tattoo includes the message “always in my heart.” Dates are also popular inclusions among memorial tattoo designs.
Another popular motif among RIP tattoos are initials or a name with angel wings. If you like the thought of your loved one in heaven, go with wings as a sweet reminder.
Here’s a unique RIP tattoo that includes a shoe for a beloved sneaker-head. Again, we find the watercolor effect here that adds to much movement and beauty.
“Grandma I miss you,” this RIP tattoo that’s been made to look like a text message says. This design also acts as a reminder for others to speak to their grandparents more often. They’re not here forever.
We have seen a bunch of small initials thus far, but you can go big with them for a dramatic piece. As we mentioned, wings are a popular accompaniment.
As you might have guessed, portrait RIP tattoos are wildly popular. A word of caution: not every tattoo artist is great at them so do your homework before committing to a portrait.
Lighthouses are popular imagery as they symbolize hope, direction, and purpose. This person has gotten one with “Dad” emblazoned on it for good measure.
Tombstones are also common among RIP tattoos and you can get creative with what it says. It can be as simple as a name and dates or it can convey another message.
When grieving, it can be difficult to understand the reason behind your loss. Things are simply out of our control. A gentle reminder like “everything happens for a reason” could be the right RIP tattoo idea for you.
Here we find a beautiful rose with the name Granny formed from the stem. This is a really popular style of design and it can be adapted to make it even more sentimental.
Here’s a happy rainbow trout for this person who had a dad who lived to fish. Imagery that evokes memories shared with your loved one should be considered. Think of their hobbies and passions and turn them into a RIP tattoo.
We love the idea behind these memorial stamps that contain favorite flowers and dates. This is another idea that can be adapted to match the person you are memorializing.
Here’s one of our favorite RIP tattoos because it contains so much color and movement. Anything goes so swing for the fences with your tattoo idea and let your artist realize your vision.
Family photo RIP tattoos are fairly popular today and we like this simple line style that most artists are going to be able to nail. Choose your favorite photo of your loved one, and let the artist recreate it for you.
We hope that these 25 RIP tattoo ideas have provided you with some inspiration as you pay tribute to the memory of a loved one. Losing someone close to you is never easy, but finding ways to keep their memory alive can be a comforting and healing process. Whether you choose an image that symbolizes their personality, a quote that represents their wisdom, or a portrait that captures their likeness, we’re sure that your tattoo will be a tribute to their life and an important part of your healing journey.
Andrew is an Assistant Editor for Mamas Uncut with over ten years of experience as a writer in the creative, marketing, and blogging spaces. After studying Film and Art History, he developed a passion for telling stories in a variety of mediums. Obsessively making lists, reporting celebrity news, and diving into emerging pop cultural topics are a few of his interests.
Mamas Uncut is THE online place for moms. We cover the latest about motherhood, parenting, and entertainment as well – all with a mom-focused twist. So if you're looking for parenting advice from real parents, we have plenty of it, all for moms from moms, and also experts. Because, at the end of the day, our mission is focused solely on empowering moms and moms-to-be with the knowledge and answers they’re looking for in one safe space.
