Dreaming about protecting deceased family members can be deeply emotional and meaningful. This type of dream often reflects your feelings of love, responsibility, or unresolved issues related to those individuals. Here are some possible interpretations:

1. Grief and Remembrance: This dream may indicate that you are still processing your feelings about their passing. Protecting them in your dream could symbolize your desire to honor their memory and keep them safe in your heart.
2. Sense of Duty: If you feel a strong sense of obligation toward your family, this dream might represent your wish to shield them from harm, even in death. It could be a manifestation of your caring nature and your wish to continue supporting them.
3. Unresolved Issues: If there were unresolved conflicts or conversations left unsaid, this dream might signify your need to confront those feelings. Protecting them could symbolize your desire to reconcile these issues, even if just in your mind.
4. Spiritual Connection: Some people believe that dreams involving deceased loved ones can indicate a spiritual connection or message. You might feel their presence in your life, and this dream could be a way for you to connect with them.
5. Reflection of Self: The deceased family members could represent qualities or values that you admire. Protecting them in your dream might reflect your desire to embody those traits in your own life.

Consider how you felt during the dream and any specific details that stood out to you, as these can provide additional insights. If this dream continues to resonate with you, it may be helpful to reflect on your feelings regarding your loved ones and the impact they had on your life.