Funeral Wishes Checklist

When people arranging a funeral know what the person who died wanted, they describe feeling a great sense of relief and consolation at being able to fulfil those wishes. These funeral wishes do not need to be detailed or complex; simply knowing a preferred flower, music choice, or poem can make a significant difference. For those who are unsure how to talk about funeral wishes, it can be helpful to use a funeral wishes template to guide these important conversations.

People who know the funeral wishes when they are arranging a funeral report having a more positive experience, which promotes a sense of control and well-being. This is supported by the findings of a large research project we recently conducted with academics from the University of York.

Some individuals choose to document their funeral plans and wishes – this process is often referred to as creating a funeral wishes document or engaging in advance funeral planning. Pre-planning funeral arrangements helps clarify your preferences, whether you are using a funeral planning template or creating your own funeral wishes checklist. Sharing your preferences can ease the burden on your family and friends when the time comes to make arrangements. You might find a funeral wishes template UK edition helpful, and we have a Funeral Wishes Document you can use to guide you. It’s not necessary to complete it in full—just fill in the sections that feel important to you.

Funeral wishes can be expressed separately from, or in conjunction with, purchasing a pre-paid funeral plan. Many people wonder, “Are funeral wishes in a will legally binding?” While they are not legally binding, expressing your wishes clearly outside of your will and discussing your wishes with your executor will make it much more likely that they are followed. It’s helpful to know how to document funeral wishes, which involves writing down or sharing what you want, while a pre-paid plan involves paying money towards a funeral that will take place in the future.

Everyone is different. Some people choose to plan their own funeral as part of end-of-life planning, after attending a recent funeral, or because they have a life-limiting condition. Regardless of your circumstances, we are here to assist you in sharing your wishes through a simple funeral wishes document. If you need help, we offer a no-cost meeting to discuss your preferences and guide you in documenting them. Using a funeral plan template or a funeral checklist can also be very useful during this process. Additionally, our book, “Funerals Your Way,” may provide you with further insights and examples of how to write your funeral wishes.

If you’re uncertain about what options are available or how to express your funeral wishes, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We can assist you over the phone, via Zoom, or in person (where practical). There is no obligation to use our services after this conversation. We genuinely believe that documenting funeral wishes is important, and we are happy to do whatever we can to help you ensure your funeral wishes are followed.