Introduction
This document relates to and references other important papers, such as:
My legally executed Will that determines the distribution of my assets (Ha!) at the time of my death.
A Cremation Policy, which is paid in full, and designed to cover all the costs associated with that process.
A Life Insurance Policy to use for any costs related to carrying out my final wishes. (e.g., travel)
What I’ve included here does not revoke or alter anything contained in the legal paperwork but focuses on personal matters. It’s being written at a time when I’m healthy enough to detail my thoughts coherently, even as I face the reality of my mortality.
I wanted the opportunity to offer some of my own perspective, my thoughts, as well as guidance that might be useful after I’m gone.
Some of what follows is written confirmation of conversations we’ve had over the years regarding my final wishes.
While at times this might seem pedantic and directive, the goal is to make things easier.
I mean, let’s face it, there’s no way I can “rest in peace” if I know I’ve left a confusing mess behind.
It’s my hope that these instructions assist you in practical matters—everything from vital contact information to the disposition of my remains to managing my Facebook page.
It’s also my fervent prayer that this will aid those I love to move peacefully through the process of loss. I want to avoid the confusion of wondering “is this what he’d want,” or the stress about how to handle everyday household chores that I normally took care of.
Also, making these things clear is essential if, for some reason, someone other than my husband is handling my final arrangements.
In short, this is the primary resource to consult for my final wishes!
Note: A digital version of this document, My Final Wishes and Instructions, can be found in our shared OneDrive folder (Bx2 Documents), in the folder WRP Final Wishes and Instructions. That version contains embedded links to the resources and details I’ve cited here and will be useful for planning.