Answer
When someone in the family passes away, the cremation and related funeral rites are to be performed. These duties are prescribed in the scriptures and are generally expected of the relatives and descendants.
Even if the death occurred some years earlier, the question may arise whether śrāddha ceremonies should still be performed. From the Vaishnava perspective, such observances may be performed according to scriptural injunctions as a matter of family duty and tradition.
However, the deeper understanding is that when one is engaged in positive devotional service, especially chanting and hearing the holy name of Krishna, such devotional activities gradually take care of all subsidiary ritual obligations.
Śrāddha ceremonies are generally intended for those who are not firmly situated in Krishna consciousness. For devotees engaged in sincere devotional service, their practice itself becomes the highest form of offering and benefit for all purposes, including the welfare of departed relatives.
Therefore, rather than focusing exclusively on complex ritual procedures that require specific qualifications, mantras, and strict regulations, one should prioritize devotional service such as chanting the Hare Krishna mantra, hearing scriptures, and studying Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam.
By sincerely engaging in Krishna consciousness, one fulfills one’s higher duties in a complete and spiritual way.
