My 94-year-old parents had things to tell me this week.

[maddiemom]

31. This is almost exactly what my late mother had verified in writing, a decade before she died.

She was 91 when she passed and was pretty much bedridden: her mind drifted quite a lot, and she completely lost interest in politics (the scariest thing to me, as she had been VERY active well into her late seventies). Despite her wishes (which will be my own), her youngest sister, some fifteen years older than I and living in a neighboring state, demanded a later memorial service and reception. Mom left enough for this to be taken care of with no financial strain, but my brother and I Iater regretted being talked into it. My aunt showed up with only one one of her four kids (with spouse) and they stayed only a short while. Worst of all, she had asked us to provide a "spread," but they already ate on the way. My brother got along well with this aunt before, and she was a favorite with me. With no dramatics involved, we've rarely spoken since (nearly a decade). Hopefully wishes of other family
and your situation will be straightforward. Be warned, however, of interfering relatives (my mom and aunt were very close throughout their lives), and advise your parents to put their wishes, BEYOND end of life healthcare, in writing. If they choose traditional funeral services...no problem.