There are no letters represented by the numerology number 8 in all of your name nor in the name numbers calculated from those letters. Further, there is no 8 anywhere in your birth date nor your numerology calculated birth date number.

However, your power number is an 8. The numerology power number is calculated from the numerology numbers of both your name and your birth date.

The numerology power number's energy generally is felt starting about mid-life and continues to be in force until transition to the spiritual Universe.

Your power number will be in force beginning year 2017. About that time, you will begin to see the world in a different way and notice opportunities you probably would not have noticed before.

The number 8 is an organization number, a number that can organize and lead people to achieve specific goals.

People without the 8 also organize people and lead them to achieve specific goals. For the 8, it's easier, feels natural.

I am unable to use numerology to say whether or not seeing the numbers 8 and 88 are a message from the the person close to you who has passed. Perhaps someone competent who can communicate with those on the other side will be able to tell you.