You don't need to have every detail of your funeral worked out before you write anything down. You might know which song you would like but have no idea about the rest. That is still a useful place to start.
At Bay Tree Funerals in Blaby, we have a Funeral Wishes resource to help you put those thoughts in one place. It is designed to give you a printable record that you can share with your family or whoever may arrange your funeral.
Start with one or two things
My suggestion is to begin with the choices that matter most to you. That could be a burial or cremation preference, a favourite piece of music, a reading, or a charity you would like people to support.
An explanation can be helpful as well. If a song reminds you of a particular person or time in your life, a line about that gives your family some context.
You can also say where you do not have a strong preference. There is no need to choose something just to fill in a box. It helps to make clear which things matter to you and which decisions you are happy for others to make.
Our form includes space for the place of the service, music, readings, flowers, donations and wishes for ashes, as well as a message to loved ones.
This is a record of your wishes. It is separate from a prepaid funeral plan and is not a legal document.
Keep it easy to find
Once you have written your wishes down, let someone you trust know where the record is kept. You could give them a copy and keep one with your other important papers.
If you feel comfortable, talk through it together. It doesn't have to be a long or formal conversation. You can simply explain that you have written a few things down so they know what you would like.
Preferences can change. Put a date on your record and update it when you need to. If you make changes, tell anyone who has an older copy.
We are an independent, family-run funeral director serving Leicester and Leicestershire from our premises at 7A Welford Road, Blaby. If you would find it easier to talk through the form, you can speak with me and the team for help completing it in person.
You can find the Funeral Wishes resource on our website and take it one question at a time.
