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Can You Have a Funeral and Viewing with Cremation? Absolutely.

Posted in Blog, Resources.

Many people wonder if choosing cremation means you can’t have a funeral or a viewing. That’s a common misconception. Cremation is a choice for final disposition—not a replacement for a meaningful service. Even with cremation as part of end-of-life wishes for a loved one or yourself, you can still plan a traditional funeral (with the body present), a viewing, or a memorial service with every bit of the care, ceremony, and comfort your family desires.

What Cremation Really Means

Cremation is one of several options for caring for a loved one after death (others include burial or interment, green burial, entombment, alkaline hydrolysis, natural organic reduction, and donation to science). Selecting cremation simply determines what happens after the service. The service itself (religious or secular, formal or casual) remains fully up to you. Military honors can also be included, just as they would be with a burial.

Service Options When You Choose Cremation

1) Traditional Funeral Before Cremation

If the body is present, it’s a funeral service. This can be held in a church, chapel, funeral home, or another meaningful venue. The deceased is placed in a casket that’s suitable for cremation. Some funeral homes provide a standard ceremonial casket used for the service, with a cremation container inside; afterward, the cremation container (with the deceased) is taken to the crematory. This approach preserves dignity and allows for all the rituals that matter to your family.

2) Memorial Service (Body Not Present)

A memorial service occurs when the body is not present—this can be held before or after cremation. Many families choose a memorial because it offers flexibility in timing and location: a favorite park, lakeside spot, restaurant, sports venue, hotel, or community space. You can incorporate an urn, photos, keepsakes, memory boards, and personal touches that tell your loved one’s story.

3) Celebration of Life, Scattering, or Private Gathering

Some families prefer a celebration of life, a scattering ceremony in a meaningful place, or a small private gathering. Cultural and religious traditions can be honored in any of these settings—cremation as a disposition doesn’t limit your ability to weave in the customs that matter to you.

Can You Have a Viewing Before Cremation?

Yes. Many families choose a visitation or viewing prior to cremation. Depending on the timing between death and the viewing, embalming may be recommended or required to ensure a comfortable and healing experience for attendees.

For many people, having time to see and spend time with their loved one helps with acceptance, rituals of farewell, and the grief process.

What to Expect in the Cremation Process

While every provider has their own procedures, a respectful, professional process typically includes:

  1. Authorization & Identification: Next of kin (or an authorized representative) provides permission and completes identification.
  2. Cremation Container: The body is placed in a cremation container selected by the family and compliant with state requirements.
  3. Cremation: The cremation occurs in a dedicated chamber, overseen by trained cremation professionals or funeral staff.
  4. Return of Cremated Remains: The cremated remains (“ashes”) are carefully collected and placed in an urn or container to be returned to the family.

Honoring Wishes—Yours or Theirs

Every family can choose the type of service that reflects their loved one’s values, beliefs, budget, and preferences. The most helpful time to make those choices is in advance… open conversations reduce guesswork and stress later. Recording your wishes ensures the service is exactly what you intend.

Planning tip: Use our planning guide to document your preferences for services, viewing, military honors, music/readings, venue, and disposition details so your family has clear direction when it’s needed most.

Quick FAQs

  • Do we need a special casket for a funeral before cremation? Your funeral home can guide you. Many offer ceremonial caskets designed for use with a cremation container. After the service, the cremation container is transported to the crematory.
  • Can we include military honors if we choose cremation? Military honors can be part of a funeral or memorial service regardless of the final disposition choice.
  • Where can we hold a memorial? Almost anywhere people can gather—houses of worship, funeral homes, community centers, outdoors, or a venue that was special to your loved one.
  • Who authorizes cremation? Typically, the next of kin or a legally authorized person completes identification and the authorization paperwork. Your provider will walk you through the process.

The Bottom Line

Cremation doesn’t limit your options; it expands them. Whether you choose a traditional funeral with viewing, a memorial service, or a celebration of life, you can create a meaningful tribute that honors your loved one and supports your family’s healing. If you’re considering cremation, take time to explore what feels right and record your wishes so your family has clear guidance when the time comes.

Crafting Your Personal Life Map: A Comprehensive Guide Using the Pathway Planning Guide

Posted in Blog.

Life is a magnificent journey, and, as with any adventure, it’s essential to have a reliable map or guide to navigate the unknown. The Pathway Planning Guide and resource book is designed to assist you in thoughtfully considering and organizing your end-of-life plans in a way that is meaningful to you and your loved ones. The goal is to help you create a personalized roadmap of your wishes, ensuring you leave behind a legacy of clarity and peace for those you care about most.

The guide unfolds in four beautifully structured sections:

  1. Your Personal Information: This is the rich tapestry of your life story.
  2. Your People: A thoughtfully curated space to highlight the important figures in your life.
  3. Your Plans: A clear articulation of your wishes, eliminating any uncertainty.
  4. Your Important Information: A secure place to keep track of vital documents and personal accounts.

 

Section One: Your Personal Information

In this foundational section, you’ll gather essential details that paint a vivid portrait of who you are. This information will be crucial when it comes time to complete a death certificate, a document that facilitates the management of necessary legal and financial matters. Furthermore, it serves as a valuable resource for crafting a meaningful obituary and eulogy.

Delve into the depths of your life by including your educational background, cherished career, military service, hobbies that bring you joy, group affiliations, and notable achievements that have shaped your path. In times of loss, family members often grapple with stress and emotional turmoil, making it difficult to recall significant details about their loved ones. By articulating your life story now, you can ease their burden later and provide them with a comforting guide during a challenging time.

 

Section Two: Your People

In this part, you will compose a heartfelt list of the key individuals in your life; those who may need to make decisions on your behalf and those you wish to acknowledge. Here, you can list their names, your relationship with them, and how to contact them. Documenting this information can be tremendously helpful, especially in moments of stress when important details might slip through the cracks.

 

Section Three: Your Plans

Have you ever attended a service that resonated deeply with you and thought, “This is what I want for my memorial”? Planning ahead gives your loved ones a clear framework to follow. Do you prefer a service that is rooted in faith, one that narrates your life story, or perhaps a beautiful blend of both? Reflect on your wishes regarding burial or cremation, whether you’d like an open casket, and if there are specific poems, songs, or readings that hold special meaning for you. Consider who you wish to honor by eulogizing your life. Being proactive in exploring your options is not just wise; it’s a generous gift to those you leave behind.

This section guides you in planning any type of service, such as a funeral or memorial, allowing you to thoughtfully consider what you envision. This is your opportunity to create a service that reflects your true essence without the burden of hasty decisions. Take the time to reflect; this is your unique journey, and you can always revise your desires as needed. The Planning Guide TM is a living, breathing document meant to evolve alongside you.

 

Section Four: Your Important Information

This crucial section focuses on gathering and organizing significant medical, legal, and financial information. Collect vital documents such as your will, trust agreements, and Social Security details, as well as legal certificates, birth, marriage, and divorce certificates, that may be needed. Use this section to meticulously list necessary documents, such as property deeds and insurance policies, as well as contacts, such as your attorney and financial planner. Additionally, gather details about your social media and digital accounts, ensuring everything is easily accessible. While this task may seem overwhelming, having all this information at your fingertips can prevent unnecessary stress later.

As a final piece of invaluable advice, ensure someone knows where to find your plans. Consider printing the Pathway Planning Guide TM, saving it on a flash drive, or storing it securely in the cloud. It’s essential to communicate how someone can access this crucial information.

The Pathway Planning Guide transcends mere documentation; it is a heartfelt gift for your family and friends. By openly sharing your wishes, you provide clarity and comfort, helping them navigate their grief with grace and understanding.

What to Say When Someone Has a Loss: A Guide to Having Those Tough Conversations

Posted in Blog, Resources.

When someone close to you experiences the death of a loved one, it can be hard to know what to say. Many of us worry about saying the wrong thing, so we hesitate—or worse, say nothing at all. But silence can feel isolating for the grieving person. Reaching out, even briefly, can provide comfort and remind them they are not alone.

This guide offers simple, sincere ways to express sympathy, plus practical tips for supporting someone through grief.

Core Principles

  • Keep it simple and sincere. A short message can mean a lot.
  • Focus on the bereaved. This is about their loss and feelings, not your stories.
  • Offer presence and practical help. Specific support is more meaningful than vague offers.
  • Respect preferences. Cultural, religious, or family traditions may shape how someone wants to grieve.
  • Reach out early and follow up. Send a message soon after the loss, then check in again in the weeks and months that follow.

What to Say

Here are short phrases that can be adapted for any situation:

  • Basic condolences: “I’m so sorry for your loss.” Or “I’m thinking of you during this difficult time.”
  • Acknowledging the person who died: “She was such a kind, generous person and will be deeply missed.”
  • Offering support: “I’m here for you—if you need someone to talk to or help with errands, please call.”
  • Sharing a memory: “I’ll always remember when he… [insert specific memory].”
  • Faith-based: “You are in my prayers.” Or “May God comfort you and give you peace.”
  • Secular: “Sending you love and strength.”

What Not to Say

  • Avoid minimizing (“He’s in a better place”) unless you’re sure it’s comforting to them.
  • Avoid coming across as thankful they’re gone (“At least she’s not suffering anymore”).
  • Don’t compare losses (“I know how you feel”).
  • Don’t push for details about the death.
  • Skip clichés like “Time heals all wounds” or “You should move on.”

How to Express Sympathy in Different Formats

  • In person or at a funeral: Offer a brief phrase like, “I’m so sorry. I remember when…” Then listen more than you speak.
  • Phone or voicemail: “Hi [Name], it’s [You]. I was so sorry to hear about [Deceased]. I’m thinking of you and here if you need anything.”
  • Sympathy card or note: Include a short memory or specific offer of help. Example: “Dear Maria, I was so sorry to hear about Tom. I’ll always remember his laugh at community dinners. Please let me know if I can bring meals this week. With love, Ana.”
  • Text message: “I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m thinking of you—can I drop off groceries tomorrow?”
  • Email: Keep it professional yet warm: “I was deeply saddened to hear of your father’s passing. Please know I’m here to support you. I can cover your client calls this week if helpful.”
  • Social media: Keep public comments short and respectful. For more personal words, send a private message.

Special Situations

  • Sudden or unexpected death: Emphasize immediate support and simple condolences.
  • Suicide or homicide: Avoid judgment; focus on being present.
  • After long illness or caregiving: Recognize the effort: “I know you gave so much care—I admire your devotion and I’m sorry it ended this way.”
  • Pregnancy loss: Keep it direct and compassionate: “I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m here however you need.”

How to Offer Help

Instead of saying, “Let me know if you need anything,” try offering something specific:

  • “I can bring dinner on Tuesday or Thursday—what works better?”
  • “I will plan to drive the kids to school this week. What time do you want me to pick them up?”
  • “I’d like to help with paperwork—what can I take off your list?”
  • “I’m already at Costco—what do you need that I can drop off at your porch (won’t even visit, just will drop off!)”

Following Up

Grief lasts much longer than the funeral. A thoughtful check-in a few weeks or months later can make a big difference (when other people’s condolences may have dwindled down).

  • First days: Send a card, call, or bring a meal.
  • Weeks 2–8: Check in and offer concrete help.
  • Months 3–12: Remember anniversaries, holidays, or birthdays with a note or small gesture.

Quick Checklist Before You Reach Out

  • Use the deceased’s name
  • Keep your message short and heartfelt
  • Offer specific help or follow-up
  • Avoid minimizing language

Final Thoughts

What matters most is showing up—with your words, your presence, or your help. You don’t have to be perfect. A few sincere words of sympathy can ease someone’s burden and remind them they are surrounded by care and compassion.

Debunked: The Common Myths About End-Of-Life Planning

Posted in Blog.

Planning ahead for death isn’t about being morbid—it’s about making loving, practical choices so your people aren’t left guessing. Below are the most common myths we hear, and what’s actually true.

Myth 1: “Funeral planning is only for the elderly or the sick.”

Reality: A basic plan at any age reduces stress, costs, and confusion. Sudden loss happens. Writing down even a few preferences—who to call, preferred disposition (burial, cremation, etc.), type of gathering—helps ensure your wishes are honored.

Pro tips:

  • Capture the essentials: disposition choice, service style (religious/ secular/ celebration), key contacts, and funding source.
  • Tell at least one trusted person where your plan is stored.

Myth 2: “A funeral must be expensive to be respectful.”

Reality: Meaning > money. A thoughtful, personal service can be simple and profoundly healing. Costs are driven by choices, not by how much you care.

Ways to keep costs reasonable:

  • Choose a simple disposition and a modest casket or urn.
  • Use a home, park shelter, community center, or place of worship as the venue.
  • Invite family and friends to participate—music, readings, photos, food.

Myth 3: “Only funeral directors can plan a proper service.”

Reality: Licensed funeral directors provide valuable expertise and resources for the care of the deceased and offer guidance in planning services. Collaborating with family and friends to honor the wishes of the deceased is essential for creating a meaningful service. The optimal way to utilize a funeral director is often determined by the desired type of service and disposition.

Pro tips:

  • Start with your vision (religious rite, life celebration, intimate gathering).
  • Ask a funeral home what they must handle vs. what you can do yourselves (programs, speakers, slideshow, reception).

Myth 4: “A funeral must happen immediately.”

Reality: Timelines vary by state law, logistics, and family needs. Many families schedule services days or even weeks later to allow for travel, religious customs, or coordination.

Timing considerations:

  • Travel and work schedules of key people
  • Availability of an officiant/venue
  • Disposition choice and required authorizations
  • Organ, eye, or tissue donation; possible autopsy

Myth 5: “Embalming is required.”

Reality: Embalming is not legally required in most cases. Embalming should be considered if choosing an open casket viewing, the timeframe between death and disposition, and certain transportation plans.

Questions to ask:

  • Is embalming required for our choices?
  • Can refrigeration meet our needs instead?

Myth 6: “Cremated remains (ashes) must be buried or scattered immediately.”

Reality: Cremation is considered a final disposition, therefore it is up to the family, next-of-kin to decide if and when the cremated remains will be placed in an urn, buried, scattered in an appropriate place, or made into a piece of art or jewelry.

Important note:

  • Don’t leave cremated remains unclaimed at a funeral home or crematory. Make a plan for long-term care or placement.

Myth 7: “Burial and cremation are the only options.”

Reality: Traditional burial and cremation are common, but some states also allow additional methods. Availability depends on local law and providers.

Examples you may encounter:

  • Green/Natural Burial: No embalming chemicals; biodegradable materials; return to the earth naturally.
  • Alkaline Hydrolysis (sometimes called Aquamation): Uses water, heat, and alkalinity to reduce remains; often described as a gentler, lower-energy alternative to flame cremation.
  • Natural Organic Reduction (NOR): A controlled, natural process that transforms remains into nutrient-rich soil.

Tip: Ask a local provider which options are currently available in your state or region, as laws and offerings change over time.

Myth 8: “Advance plans eliminate the family’s role.”

Reality: Advance planning sets the guardrails, not the script. Your loved ones will still make meaningful choices (date/time, speakers, music, obituary timing, reception details) within the framework you’ve left.

Why this helps:

  • Less second-guessing and family conflict
  • Faster, clearer decisions during a difficult week
  • Better alignment with your values and budget

 

Funeral Terminology for Client Families

Posted in Blog, FAQ.

Words and phrases commonly used by funeral providers

Terminology: The first contact with the funeral home:

First Call: The initial contact notifying the funeral home of a death.

Arrangement Conference: The meeting with the funeral director to discuss the service plans; the selection of services and merchandise with family.

Funeral Arrangements: The details of the service and disposition that are decided by family

Death certificate: The legal document identifying the deceased, medical information, and disposition.

Informant: The person who provides the information about the deceased for the death certificate

Obituary: A biographical written notice of a deceased person

Death notice: A newspaper announcement publicizing the death of a person

Transfer of remains/removal: The transporting of the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home

Embalming: The disinfection and temporary preservation of a deceased human

 

Service Terminology:

Funeral Service: A ceremony held to honor the deceased, with the body present

Memorial Service: A ceremony held to honor the deceased, without the body present

Graveside Service: A ceremony held for the deceased at the burial site

Celebrant: The person who leads the funeral, memorial, graveside service

Officiant: Traditionally, the religious person who leads the service

Eulogy: A speech given to honor the deceased

Viewing: A designated time to view the deceased prior to a service

Calling Hours/visitation/visiting hours: Designated time to pay respects to the family of the deceased

Memorial Package: Book, Folders, Prayer Cards, and Acknowledgment Cards: The products created for the service, about the deceased, for the family and friends to keep as mementos.

 

Terms related to Disposition:

Burial/Interment: The placing of the deceased in a gravespace

Casket: A rigid rectangular container for the placement of the deceased, constructed of wood or metal, typically used for burial or entombment

Coffin: A hexagonal-shaped container for the placement of the deceased

Grave liner: An outer container to protect  the casket from the weight of the earth, without the ability to be sealed

Outer burial container: An outer container to protect the casket from the weight of the earth, which is sealed

Cemetery: A designated area for the burial/interment of the deceased.  Cemeteries typically have the standing tall headstone placed at each gravesite

Memorial Park: A designated area for the burial/interment of the deceased. Memorial parks have flat stone or bronze markers at each gravesite

Mausoleum: A building that contains space for the crypts 

Entombment: The placing of the deceased in the mausoleum crypt.

Cremation: The process of disposing of a deceased by intense heat

Alternative container: A container designed for the placement of the deceased, used for the cremation process

Inurnment: The placing of the cremated remains in an urn, and burial of the urn

Urn: A container designed for the cremated remains, can be made of wood, stone, glass, metal, pottery, or ceramic.

 

The Gift

Posted in Blog.

I want to introduce a topic that many of us find uncomfortable: end-of-life planning.  Although it often evokes feelings of unease, it holds an undeniable importance in our lives.

When we plan our vacations down to the finest detail–choosing the perfect destination, curating a list of activities, and dreaming of the experiences we will create–why then do we often neglect the most significant journey of all? The journey of our own life and its conclusion?

End-of-life planning is not just about logistics; it’s about peace of mind.  A chance to reflect on what truly matters to you and to ensure your wishes are honored.  By taking the time to outline your end-of-life preferences regarding medical decisions, memorial arrangements, and legacy, you gift your family the clarity and comfort they’ll need in a time of emotional turmoil.

Opting to proactively engage in this process allows you to craft a narrative that defines you.  Together at Peaceful Decisions, we can explore your values, recount your stories, and create a personalized plan that reflects who you truly are.  

This is your opportunity to leave a legacy, one that goes beyond material possessions and resonates with your family, friends, and future generations.

Think about the conversations you might have with loved ones.  Picture your children, discussing your life with pride, sharing the stories and experiences that shaped you.  Instead of burdening them with uncertainty, you empower them.  You take control of your legacy and provide them with a roadmap that honors your choices and values.

End-of-life planning promotes healing and acceptance.  It opens the door for meaningful conversations about life, love, and the memories we cherish.  It enables families to reconnect, share experiences, and ultimately grow closer through a process that often feels daunting.

I urge you to consider this vital aspect of your life.  Don’t let uncertainty overshadow the beauty of planning and reflection.  Take steps now to outline your wishes and discuss them with those you love.  Doing so will not only alleviate concerns for your family but also enrich the relationships you hold dear.

Let us embark on this journey together.  By creating a meaningful legacy, we ensure that your stories continue to inspire and comfort those left behind.

Creating Your Own Life Map: A Guide for Planning Ahead

Posted in Blog.

Life is a journey, and just like any journey, it helps to have a map and a plan for your intended route. Our Pathway Planning Guide is here to help you think about and organize your end-of-life plans in a way that makes sense for you and your loved ones. Our guide exists to help you create a personalized plan and share it with your family and friends, leaving you with a sense of peace when it comes to your legacy.

The guide is divided into four main sections:

  1. Your Personal Information: This is all about you ~ your life story.
  2. Your People: A place to list important people in your life who should know about your plans.
  3. Your Plans: This is where you can clearly outline your wishes, ensuring there are no uncertainties.
  4. Your Important Information: This section helps you keep track of vital documents and personal accounts.

Section One: Your Personal Information

In this first section, you’ll gather important facts about your life. This information will be helpful when it comes time to fill out a death certificate, which is necessary for handling legal and financial matters. It’s also a good idea to include details that could be used in your obituary and eulogy. 

Consider adding your education, career, military service, hobbies, and any important achievements. When someone passes away, it can be hard for family members to remember these details, especially during such a stressful time. Writing down your life story can ease this burden for them when the time comes.

Section Two: Your People

In this part, you’ll create a list of the key people in your life (those who might need to make decisions after you’re gone or those you want to acknowledge). You can jot down their names, how they’re related to you, and how to contact them. This is helpful because, during difficult times, it’s easy to forget important details or critical people to include.

You’ll also plan for any services, such as a funeral or memorial. This is your chance to think about what you want without the pressure of time. You can take your time to figure out how you want the service to be, and remember, you can always change your mind later! The guide is meant to be updated whenever you need it.

Section Three: Your Plans

Have you ever been to a service and thought, “What do I want when it comes time for me?” Planning gives you time to think about what you’d want ahead of time and gives your family clear instructions on those wishes. 

Do you want a service that reflects your faith, tells your life’s story, or maybe a mix of both? We’ll help you think about whether you want to be buried or cremated, if you’d like people to say goodbye at your casket, or if you have favorite poems or music you’d like included. Consider who you’d like to speak to about your life. Being aware of your options makes the planning process smoother.

Section Four: Your Important Information

This section focuses on keeping track of important medical, legal, and financial information. It is helpful to gather crucial documents, such as your will, trust agreements, Social Security details, and legal certificates (like birth, marriage, or divorce certificates). Make a list of necessary documents, such as property deeds and insurance policies, and key contacts like your attorney and financial planner. You should also include how to access your social media and digital accounts. This might seem like a lot, but having this information organized can save time when it’s needed most.

Finally, it’s essential to ensure that someone knows where to find your plans. You might print the Pathway Planning Guide, save it on a secure device, or store it in the cloud. Just make sure that someone in your life knows how to access it.

The Pathway Planning Guide is more than just a document; it’s a thoughtful gift for your family and friends. By sharing your wishes now, you help them understand your desires and ease their burden during a difficult time. Get started today »

The Gift

Posted in Blog.

I want to introduce a topic that many of us find uncomfortable: end-of-life planning.  Although it often evokes feelings of unease, it holds an undeniable importance in our lives.

When we plan our vacations down to the finest detail–choosing the perfect destination, curating a list of activities, and dreaming of the experiences we will create–why then do we often neglect the most significant journey of all? The journey of our own life and its conclusion?

End-of-life planning is not just about logistics; it’s about peace of mind.  A chance to reflect on what truly matters to you and to ensure your wishes are honored.  By taking the time to outline your end of life preferences regarding medical decisions, memorial arrangements, and legacy, you gift your family the clarity and comfort they’ll need in a time of emotional turmoil.

Opting to proactively engage in this process allows you to craft a narrative that defines you.  Together at Peaceful Decisions, we can explore your values, recount your stories, and create a personalized plan that reflects who you truly are.  

This is your opportunity to leave a legacy, one that goes beyond material possessions and resonates with your family, friends, and future generations.

Think about the conversations you might have with loved ones.  Picture your children, discussing your life with pride, sharing the stories and experiences that shaped you.  Instead of burdening them with uncertainty, you empower them.  You take control of your legacy and provide them with a roadmap that honors your choices and values.

End-of-life planning promotes healing and acceptance.  It opens the door for meaningful conversations about life, love, and the memories we cherish.  It enables families to reconnect, share experiences, and ultimately grow closer through a process that often feels daunting.

I urge you to consider this vital aspect of your life.  Don’t let uncertainty overshadow the beauty of planning and reflection.  Take steps now to outline your wishes and discuss them with those you love.  Doing so will not only alleviate concerns for your family but also enrich the relationships you hold dear.

Let us embark on this journey together.  By creating a meaningful legacy, we ensure that your stories continue to inspire and comfort those left behind.

Creating Your Own Life Map: A Guide for Planning Ahead

Posted in Blog.

Life is a journey, and just like any journey, it helps to have a map and a plan for your intended route. Our Pathway Planning Guide is here to help you think about and organize your end-of-life plans in a way that makes sense for you and your loved ones. Our guide exists to help you create a personalized plan and share it with your family and friends, leaving you with a sense of peace when it comes to your legacy.

The guide is divided into four main sections:

  1. Your Personal Information: This is all about you ~ your life story.
  2. Your People: A place to list important people in your life who should know about your plans.
  3. Your Plans: This is where you can clearly outline your wishes so that there are no uncertainties.
  4. Your Important Information: This section helps you keep track of vital documents and personal accounts.

Section One: Your Personal Information

In this first section, you’ll gather important facts about your life. This information will be helpful when it comes time to fill out a death certificate, which is necessary for handling legal and financial matters. It’s also a good idea to include details that could be used in your obituary and eulogy. 

Consider adding your education, career, military service, hobbies, and any important achievements. When someone passes away, it can be hard for family members to remember these details, especially during such a stressful time. Writing down your life story can ease this burden for them when the time comes.

Section Two: Your People

In this part, you’ll create a list of the key people in your life (those who might need to make decisions after you’re gone or those you want to acknowledge). You can jot down their names, how they’re related to you, and how to contact them. This is helpful because, during difficult times, it’s easy to forget important details or critical people to include.

You’ll also plan for any services, such as a funeral or memorial. This is your chance to think about what you want without the pressure of time. You can take your time to figure out how you want the service to be, and remember, you can always change your mind later! The guide is meant to be updated whenever you need it.

Section Three: Your Plans

Have you ever been to a service and thought, “What do I want when it comes time for me?” Planning gives you time to think about what you’d want ahead of time and gives your family clear instructions on those wishes. 

Do you want a service that reflects your faith, tells your life’s story, or maybe a mix of both? We’ll help you think about whether you want to be buried or cremated, if you’d like people to say goodbye at your casket, or if you have favorite poems or music you’d like included. Consider who you’d like to speak about your life. Being aware of your options makes the planning process smoother.

Section Four: Your Important Information

This section focuses on keeping track of important medical, legal, and financial information. It helps to gather crucial documents like your will, trust agreements, Social Security details, and legal certificates (like your birth, marriage, or divorce certificates). Make a list of necessary documents, such as property deeds and insurance policies, and key contacts like your attorney and financial planner. You should also include how to access your social media and digital accounts. This might seem like a lot, but having this information organized can save time when it’s needed most.

Finally, it’s vital to make sure someone knows where to find your plans. You might print the Pathway Planning Guide, save it on a secure device, or store it in the cloud. Just make sure that someone in your life knows how to access it.

The Pathway Planning Guide is more than just a document; it’s a thoughtful gift for your family and friends. By sharing your wishes now, you help them understand your desires and ease their burden during a difficult time.

How to Start the Conversation

Posted in Blog.

Easy steps to begin the end-of-life conversation and planning.

What is stopping you from starting your plan for such an important life event? We often imagine and plan for weddings, births, and birthdays, so why is it difficult to talk about death? Death is inevitable, and all of us will experience it at some point. Is there a fear that discussing death or planning might somehow bring about your death? Remember, FEAR stands for “false expectations appearing real.”

Peaceful Decisions can assist you in finding simple ways to begin your planning process. We encourage you to share your plans with those who matter most to you and to discuss end-of-life planning with parents, aging relatives, and friends.

A helpful way to start your planning process is by seeking guidance and support. The Pathway Planning Guide and Resource Book were designed to: 

  1. Support you through the various steps of end-of-life planning
  2. Enable you to complete the guide on your own. 

With our guide, you will learn about the many options available for end-of-life planning.

Documenting your personal and biographical information helps create your story and legacy, ensuring your narrative is accurately communicated. Gathering details about someone’s life can also be a gentle way to initiate the conversation about end-of-life planning, especially for those responsible for an older relative or friend. 

Taking this process slowly, in small steps, is advisable, as end-of-life planning can be overwhelming. I understand, both professionally and personally, that this type of planning is emotional and requires a delicate approach.

I assure you that you can find the support you need by using the resources and services offered by Peaceful Decisions. We are here to help you make this important life event unique, personalized, and special.