Death Planning for Loved Ones
Why It's Important
In our society, death is often a taboo subject, leading many to avoid crucial end-of-life planning for themselves and their loved ones.
When we die, a series of events must happen around our body, belongings, and memorial. It is a gift to ourselves and our loved ones to have our "death ducks" in order when the time comes so no one is left guessing how best to honor our life and legacy.
By facing death planning head-on, we can:
- Ease the burden on our loved ones
- Find peace of mind in knowing we're prepared
- Create opportunities for meaningful conversations about life and legacy
- Embrace our mortality as a catalyst for living more fully
- Ensure our final wishes are respected
Planning for death isn't just about the end of life—it's about enriching the life we're living now.
What This Is
The Death Planning for Loved Ones is a recurring workshop designed for death-positive individuals who are serious about putting their "ducks in order" for their eventual passing and to support loved ones in doing the same.
This is not just for those facing terminal illnesses; in fact, planning while healthy and coherent is ideal.
Our monthly gatherings provide:
- Education and discussion on crucial death planning topics
- A supportive community of like-minded individuals
- Accountability to ensure progress in your planning journey
- Tools and resources to make the process easier
- A space to explore the emotional and spiritual aspects of death preparation
Wether you are a death expert or just now facing the topic, this is a space to help you grow and stay on top of your planning and preparation for yourself and your loved ones.
How We'll Do It
We meet on the 1st Tuesday of every month from 1:30 PM to 2:45 PM Pacific Time over Zoom. Each session follows a structured yet flexible format:
- Check-ins and progress sharing
- Educational focus on a rotating topic, including:
- Legal documents
- Supporting loved ones through the planning process
- Funeral and body treatment options
- Financial planning
- Spiritual preparation
- Legacy planning
3. Group discussion and peer support
4. Action planning for the coming month
Participants receive:
- A project planning document and template
- Optional 1:1 calls with our facilitator
We aim to make this work beneficial, joyful, and easeful. Our approach is inclusive and respects diverse spiritual and cultural backgrounds.
Facilitator: Rev. Jessica Sharp, minister, death doula, and founder of the Joyful Death Institute
Cost: Sliding scale donation of $5-$25 per session
Join us in this transformative journey of death planning. By facing our mortality together, we learn to live more fully, love more deeply, and leave a meaningful legacy.
