Jewish family memory
Recording the first yahrzeit
For a first yahrzeit, retain both the death and burial records and verify the family's observance guidance before sharing a calendar.
By Pinkas · Updated September 28, 2026
A practical first step
Ask which source supports each date and whether specific first-year guidance has been given. Keep a separate field for the observance date rather than changing the historical record.
An example to follow
Label an entry 'burial date' if that is what the cemetery record proves. A separate 'date of death' field can remain uncertain until another source is found.
Keep the record useful for the next relative
Save the original item or recording, the source of each claim, and the date you added the note. Label estimates and disputed details. Decide who should have access before inviting other people to help.