We all plan and prepare for the many major events during our lives, however, very few of us plan and prepare for the final event – our own funeral. Nobody likes to think about dying, let alone plan for it. But the act of planning and communicating your final wishes is the most thoughtful and loving deed you can do for your family.
Grieving family members are confronted with dozens of funeral planning decisions. These decisions must be made quickly and typically under emotional distress. Without planning and documentation, often there is disagreement among the family members about the funeral arrangements. This just adds anguish and stress to an already challenging situation.
The selfless act of planning and preparation leaves behind a clear understanding of your final wishes. It allows your family to know exactly “what you would have wanted” during a time of grief and loss. And for you, there is a tremendous sense of accomplishment and “peace of mind” knowing that you cared enough to plan and prepare for this difficult time.
I have listed below a brief outline to guide you in recording your preferences. Also, there are many free guides on the web.
Personal Information
- Information for Death Certificate
- People to be notified
- Obituary in the newspaper
Final Arrangements
- Mortuary choice
- Burial or Cremation
- Clothing for burial
- Headstone/Marker
- Final resting place
Funeral/Memorial Service
- Location of service
- Minister contact
- Flower preferences
- Musical selections
- Scripture/Poems/Readings
- Special Requests/Prayers
- Memorial donations
We never know when our last day on earth will be, so take some time now to document your final wishes to include in your family legacy drawer.
Beautiful. My mother planned and paid for her frugal burial many years before her death and even included and paid for memorial cards. It made my, would be, emotional choices almost nonexistent.
Joan,
Thank you for sharing your mother’s well thought out plan. My mother planned well also, however I have seen instances where there was little or no plan at all and the family suffered greatly. That is why I am so passionate about this subject! Thank you for your encouraging experience!
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Jim,
I am so glad you found the information helpful! My goal is to help people document important information and leave a legacy for their family and generations to come.