Last Wishes

What Documents Need to be Prepared Before a Death?

These six papers need to be ready so everyone can rest a little easier.

Read to Your Children (In Memory of Anna Dewdney)

When Anna Dewdney died last weekend, her obituary in Publisher's Weekly included one unusual specification: "She requested that in lieu of a funeral service that people read to a child instead."

The Two Biggest Regrets at the End of Life

We looked at hundreds of obituaries containing the keywords "biggest regret." Most peoples' regrets fell into two major categories.

12 Apps for the End of Life

Smartphone apps can help you plan a loved one’s funeral, arrange for messages to be delivered after you die, or simply complete your dearest goals before drawing your last breath.

Couple's Last Act of Generosity

Beginning in 1948, George and DeLayne Watton turned an empty lot into a gorgeous home at 3823 SW Willow Street in Seattle. Their final wish was for the city to tear it down.

Dying Woman Says Goodbye to Beloved Horse

The bond between humans and animals can be a strong, lifelong connection. This was certainly the case for Sheila Marsh and her horse, Bronwen.

Joan Rivers' Simple Funeral Plan

Joan Rivers' ideas for her own funeral are just as outrageous as everything else she ever wrote.

Last Notes to His Loved Ones

David Welch's last days were spent reaching out to the family he'd never see again.

A Trust Fund of Love

As Laura Jean Gautney Black fought breast cancer, she wrote a series of letters to her children.