Pre-Planning A Funeral-resources

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 birth
family information, including the names of your spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, and siblings
details about your education, employment, or military service
memberships 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.