Final Wishes Workbook

A gentle guide for documenting end-of-life preferences and funeral arrangements

A gift of clarity for those you love

Parent Care Guide © 2026

"Planning ahead is one of the most loving things you can do. It removes burden from those who are grieving and ensures your wishes are honored."

Why This Matters

This workbook helps you or your parent document wishes for end-of-life care and funeral arrangements. Having these conversations now, while there's time to talk openly, is a profound gift to your family.

💭
Reduces Stress

Grieving families don't have to guess

💰
Saves Money

Planned arrangements cost less

💜
Honors Wishes

Your preferences are documented

How to Use This Workbook

Complete as much as you can. Share copies with family members and your attorney. Store the original with important documents. Review and update as preferences change.

Personal Information

Essential details for official records

Legal Information

Family Information (for death certificate)

Military Service (if applicable)

Veterans may be eligible for burial benefits, headstones, and military honors. Keep DD-214 discharge papers accessible.

Service Preferences

How would you like to be remembered?

Type of Disposition

Traditional Burial
Cremation
Green/Natural Burial
Body Donation to Science

Type of Service

Traditional funeral with viewing
Memorial service (no body present)
Graveside service only
Celebration of life
Private family only
No service

Religious/Spiritual Preferences

Location Preferences

Personal Touches

Making the service meaningful

Music

Readings & Speakers

Visual Elements

Clothing & Appearance

If Cremated

Keep ashes in urn
Scatter ashes
Bury ashes in cemetery
Divide among family

Important Contacts

Who should be notified and involved

Primary Contact / Next of Kin

Attorney / Executor of Estate

Financial Advisor / Accountant

Clergy / Spiritual Advisor

People to Notify

List people who should be informed, especially those who might not hear through family channels.

Financial Information

How arrangements will be funded

Pre-Paid Arrangements

Life Insurance

Average Funeral Costs (2026)

Costs vary significantly by location and choices made.

Obituary Notes

Key facts to include in an obituary: