Question:
What reaches parents who passed away many years ago, especially since I was not dutiful to them during their lives? What is required of me now?
Answer:
Nothing is strictly obligatory upon you, but it is highly recommended and strongly emphasized that you pray—and increase your supplications—for their forgiveness and mercy, give charity on their behalf, and perform Hajj and Umrah for them. The door remains open, praise be to Allah, to show dutifulness to one’s parents.
Likewise, you should maintain ties with relatives connected through your parents, as this is also a form of dutifulness to them. Furthermore, maintain ties with their friends—the friends your parents had during their lifetime.