Writing Down Your Wishes
If you want any type of
after-death service, you can help loved ones by writing down your
preferences.
Consider the following details as you write out your
plans:
- the location of the gathering or service
- who should be invited -- for example, should it be private
(for invited family and friends) or public (open to anyone who
wishes to attend)
- who should facilitate any ceremonies
- who should speak at the service or say the eulogy, if you
want one
- whether your body will be present in a casket and, if so,
whether the casket should be open or closed
- any specific clothing or jewellery in which you wish your
body to be attired
- who you would like to serve as pallbearers, if necessary
- whether you would like a picture or other items displayed
with (or instead of) your remains
- special music, readings, food or drink, or other details
- whether you want to direct survivors to send flowers or memorial
donations
This may also be a good time to make some obituary notes
for your survivors.
Consider writing down:
- your date and place
of birthfamily information, including the names of your spouse,
children, grandchildren, parents, and siblings
- details about your
education, employment, or military servicememberships in
organizations, and whether you want people to send flowers or make
donations to a particular charity or organization in your name.
- You
may also want to select a photograph to include or describe the
newspapers or magazines where you would like your obituary
published.
