Take Care of the Legalities
Paperwork is probably the last thing on your mind after losing a parent. However, it’s good to be prepared for the number of legal decisions you may be required to make.
Review Your Parent’s Last Will and Testament
A deceased’s wishes regarding their assets and inheritance are often in their last will or testament. So, these documents may be the first legality you tackle.
If you’re unsure where your parent kept their will, try the following:
- Consult the family lawyer
- Talk to family and friends
- Search through their personal papers
- Check the safe deposit box
After you locate the will, review the document and determine the heirs and beneficiaries.
Locate Important Documents and Assets
Besides the will and testament, you might need to locate other essential documents, such as a financial power of attorney or a revocable living trust. These documents can help you deal with the distribution of assets based on your parent’s final wishes.
Determine How to Handle Property and Assets
If your parent had a sizeable estate, they may have appointed an estate planning advisor and named an executor. The executor will have the necessary documentation to fulfill the deceased’s last wishes in regard to their estate. If you are an estate executor, you’ll play a crucial role in finalizing your parent’s personal property and asset arrangements.
When it comes to assets, people tend to overlook the deceased’s digital assets. Social media profiles and email addresses should also be a part of the discussion.
Communicate with Family Members
Dealing with the death of a parent is beyond painful. However, you do not have to grieve alone. As somber as funerals are, they often bring families together. Use this opportunity to find solace in talking to those who loved your parent.
When planning the funeral, discuss with loved ones some nice-to-have details that your parent would appreciate having. After the funeral, you can plan an annual reunion to remember your loved one.
Add a Personal Touch to the Funeral
A wonderful way to honor your parent is to ensure their funeral is how they would’ve wanted it. Once again, there are no right or wrong choices here. This could mean playing their favorite music, sharing a cherished video recording of them, or adding a special ceremony, such as lighting candles.
Help Your Parent’s Memory Live On
There are many ways to honor your parent’s memory beyond a funeral.
If you have children, tell them interesting stories about their grandparent. Tell them how they lived, what they accomplished, and what made them special.
Annual reunions with your family are also a great opportunity to venture down memory lane together. These lovely recollections will ensure your parent is never forgotten.
You can do many other little things to honor their memory. You can make their favorite meal on their birthday. Playing their favorite songs can also make you feel closer to them. Some families leave a seat open for their parent during holiday celebrations and family gatherings.
These simple yet powerful gestures are wonderful ways to honor their life and send the message no one can fill the void they left behind.
Carry On Your Parent’s Legacy
Perhaps the most important thing you can do to honor your parent’s legacy is to be a living and breathing example of their achievements. Be someone your parent would be proud of, and live life to the fullest. For a parent, this is the most extraordinary award.
The Hollywood Forever cemetery offers funeral services in the Los Angeles area. Contact us to learn more.
