I'd want them to know the name of our insurance company, policy numbers, location of the policies in the house, contact name/# of the agent(s), etc. I'd want them to know the location and account number of every bank account, financial instrument (CD's, stocks, bonds, etc., etc.) and a contact name and # for each broker/banker/agent. I'd tell them who to contact IMMEDIATELY for trustworthy advice (a brother; a close friend with a good head on his/her shoulders and can offer sound financial advice). I'd give specific financial recommendations: pay off the house/don't pay off the house; status of debt load.......especially which loans / credit cards are "insured" (most forget that; many are paid in full upon the death of the loan/cardholder if the proper insurance is in force) there's plenty for college for Bobbie's last two years, but Susie may need to look at scholarships, etc. I'd let them know how I payed bills: when, to whom, how, why, etc. I'd give them the names of any "family specialists" with whom I dealt but they didn't: lawyer, mechanic, roofer, lawn service, etc.
I'd give them contacts at my workplace for questions regarding pensions, due bonuses, etc. I'd give specific recommendations regarding insurance for the rest of the family and why (and again, contact names and numbers). I'd give them some long-term financial advice. I'd leave very specific requests for my funeral arrangements.
I'd also tell them not to grieve too long, for I've gone Home to be with the Lord........and I'll await their joining me there. I would want them to know that they were the reason that I lived; the reason I pressed on; the reason I went through thick and thin, challenge, defeat, heartache...............all for them, and gladly. They made my life complete, and without them.........my life would have been empty. I would thank them for being the most wonderful gifts a man could possibly receive, and I only regret that I left too soon.
I'd also tell them not to grieve too long, for I've gone Home to be with the Lord........and I'll await their joining me there. I would want them to know that they were the reason that I lived; the reason I pressed on; the reason I went through thick and thin, challenge, defeat, heartache...............all for them, and gladly. They made my life complete, and without them.........my life would have been empty. I would thank them for being the most wonderful gifts a man could possibly receive, and I only regret that I left too soon.Thanks for sharing this part. I think it is very important. I know after 9/11 I made certain I talked to my loved ones and told them what they mean to me. My sons are grown but my granddaughter is only nine. I have written letters to her for her future birthdays....and for her wedding day...in case I am not here to tell her in person the things I want to share with her on those wonderful days.