My condolences for the situation, a good part of my family for some reason over the years has always passed away in the month of December, which makes it very difficult for me to have a very happy month.
But as you say, the important thing is the family, that they can cope in the best way possible.
My condolences to you, I imagine that December must not have been easy for you, and this is just the time to ease it a little. Yes, this Christmas will be different, sadder for us, but life goes on, it goes on, so things may get a little better in the future, the pain may hurt less.