When a family experiences grief, the memories of those we love become even more significant. One meaningful way to honor those memories at The WARM Place is with a plaque on our Wall of Memories. This special gesture creates a lasting tribute that can celebrate a life, mark a special moment, or recognize someone who made an impact. Recently, Renee Yingling and her family chose to honor their beloved mother and mother-in-law, Elaine Shepherd, with a plaque on the wall. For Renee, The WARM Place has been a part of her life for many years, not only as a place to remember loved ones, but also as a space where she has dedicated her time and heart as a volunteer.
Can you share some of your personal connection to The WARM Place?
My childhood pediatrician, Dr. Richardson, one of the founders of The WARM Place, was very special to my family. He was my pediatrician, as well as my siblings’, and later my kids’. When I became an empty nester, I had some time and wanted to volunteer, so my first thought was The WARM Place!
At first, I was a little worried I wouldn’t be able to handle it, but I had to try! I sent my application in on 10/4/12, and the next day my best friend’s son passed away. That was my sign I was right where I needed to be. I started volunteering October 18, 2012, as a houseparent and have loved it! In 2013, I also started volunteering at A Cool Night, and in 2016 joined the Cool Night committee! I have made some great friends over the years!
What inspired your family to honor your mother-in-law, Elaine, with a plaque on the Wall of Memories?
My mother-in-law was amazing, and we miss her every day. What better way to honor her and support and remember all at the same time? When I brought up the idea of doing this, my husband, Brice, and his sisters didn’t hesitate!
When I asked Brice this question, he said, “my wonderful wife.” He knows how much it means to me to support The WARM Place. He has never questioned my time or our giving.
What does it mean to you and your family to have a permanent tribute to Elaine in such a meaningful and healing space?
The backyard at The WARM Place is a beautiful space, and having this tribute to our mom/mother-in-law will forever hold a special place in our hearts! We believe in the mission, and we care about the ongoing support for grieving families. Children and families should never grieve alone.
What message would you like to share about the importance of remembrance and supporting families coping with a death loss?
I love the way group nights work at The WARM Place. Since most families don’t have dinner together as a family after a loss, The WARM Place helps with that by having everyone eat dinner together before group. We use real plates, silverware, etc., to help it feel like a normal family dinner! I think that is very special.
Remembering our loved ones can be as natural as saying their name, talking about them, and even enjoying something that they loved. I have one family on my night where the dad and kids bring a dish for dinner in the mom’s beautiful dishes, and it makes my heart so happy every time I see them. So many times, kids will bring their dish and say, “This was my dad’s favorite!” I just love that!
For me, it’s Whataburger. My dad loved Whataburger, so I try to have Whataburger on his birthday and the anniversary of his passing each year! Our loved ones are forever in our hearts and never forgotten!
A Lasting Tribute: Honoring Loved Ones on The WARM Place Wall of Memories
At The WARM Place, we are honored to help families celebrate and remember the lives of those who have touched their hearts. Renee and her family’s tribute to Elaine, is a beautiful reminder of the love, strength, and memories that continue to live on.
The Wall of Memories offers a special way to honor a loved one, commemorate a meaningful moment, or create a lasting tribute that will be treasured for years to come. By purchasing a plaque, you join a community devoted to remembering with intention, finding comfort in healing, and celebrating lives with love.
