There are many gifts you can give your children during your lifetime. One gift that is often overlooked is the gift of preplanning your funeral. You may wonder how this could possibly be a help to your children. To answer this question, we would like to share five reasons why preplanning is a precious gift for your family.

1. It gives them peace of mind, knowing things will unfold in a way that pleases you.

As the topic of end-of-life comes up, your children likely want to know your wishes. It can set their minds at ease when you communicate what you want for your funeral. Even though your children might know you very well, they might be surprised about some of your funeral choices. Finding out what you are thinking can have a positive impact on your family, because they know everything will unfold in a way that honors you. Once you state what you want, they will not need to worry about trying to make these important choices for you.

2. It provides financial relief.

When parents make an appointment with a funeral director and make arrangements, it can be a huge financial relief for your children. For those who lose loved ones suddenly, without the forethought of any preplanning, the decision making and financial toll can be tremendous, on top of the grief they are already feeling. Knowing that you have made arrangements and paid for them will help your children much when the time comes. They will be able to focus on grieving, reminiscing, and fellowshipping with friends and family, instead of wondering how they are going to pay for your funeral. You can provide financial relief for your children by pre-planning.

3. It will prevent possible disagreements and misunderstandings.

Sharing your desires can also alleviate confusion and disagreements between your children. One would hope that one’s children would be in complete harmony about everything; however, this is often not the case. This does not mean that one is right and another is wrong; it simply means that there can be a wide range of opinions and preferences. When it comes to celebrating your life, your children and their spouses might have very different ideas about what they think you would want. Thankfully, you can spare your children the stress of decision-making and compromise if you clearly state what you want for your funeral. This can help a grieving family come together in unified comfort. 

4. It provides an opportunity to make a memory with you.

When you make an appointment with a funeral director, to make plans and choose a casket, invite your family to join you. While at first they might be hesitant, they will probably discover that this event can be a thoroughly comforting experience. Many of the “what ifs” and fears of the unknown can be taken care of if you face this planning together. You may want to ask their input about some details. Simply make it clear what items are non-negotiable and what matters are flexible. It will probably make them feel valued and loved if you ask their opinion about some things. That way they can join with you in planning a beautiful service of remembrance. Making plans with your children involved can be a memorable and precious family time.

5. It will alleviate stress when the time comes, so they can focus on other things.

When your time comes, your children would be extremely grateful to know that the casket has already been chosen by you, the service details and minister have been decided, the music list is ready, and the details of the meal have been discussed. And they will be doubly grateful to know that everything mentioned above has been paid in full. Imagine what a gift this would be for your children and grandchildren! They will be able to come together to remember your life without the extra stress of planning. Sure, they may need to compile a picture slide show, but the details will be minor because of your wisdom and foresight.

There are many more benefits of pre-planning, but we hope this short list gives you an idea of what the gift of preplanning can mean to your family, both now and in the future. As always, please let us know how we can serve you and your family.  

Thank you for reading! We hope these ideas will help you in making decisions about pre-planning. Feel free to contact us online at Hathaway Family Funeral Homes or call anytime at (508)672-0781 if you have any questions. We are always available to serve you and your loved ones.