I took an online class on decluttering during the pandemic. One lesson said exactly that: things aren't people! The guy in charge even gave us the idea of a small ritual to "say goodbye" before getting rid of an object that reminded us of someone. And the phrase "This clock isn't my Dad." Or "This cup isn't my Mom." One could also say "This toy isn't my daughter." It's not easy but necessary to realize that there's not much point in saving many of the physical reminders of a person. I got rid of a broken necklace my husband had given me using such thoughts, etc.