The “Beyond Life” Planner
Your final gift to those you love.
A guide to organising your affairs and finding the right words when they are needed most.
We plan for holidays, weddings, and retirement, yet we often leave our most significant transition to chance. In Australia, the days following a passing are filled with administrative tasks that can overwhelm a grieving family.
This planner is your final gift to them. Whether you are planning ahead for yourself, or currently navigating the loss of a loved one, this guide is here to help.
Part 1: The Essentials
These are the items your Executor will need immediately.
Legal Documents
- Original Will: Location? (e.g., Solicitor’s office, Safe).
- Enduring Power of Attorney: Who holds this?
- Birth & Marriage Certificates: Location?
Digital Keys
- Phone Passcode: (Vital for 2-Factor Authentication).
- MyGov / Medicare: Login details.
- Email & Social Media: Passwords or “Legacy Contact” settings.
Part 2: The Farewell
Give your family permission to celebrate you the way you want.
The Service
- Type: Cremation or Burial?
- The Vibe: Traditional Church Service or a “Celebration of Life”?
- The Wake: A quiet tea at home, or a gathering at the local RSL/Club?
The Atmosphere
- Music: List 3 songs. (e.g., “Please play ‘What a Wonderful World’, do NOT play hymns.”)
- Photos: Where are your favourite digital photos stored for the slideshow?
Part 3: The Visual Legacy
Flowers provide a focal point for grief, but fresh flowers fade in days. Specifying Gifts After Life faux tributes ensures your memorial looks dignified year-round without burdening your family with maintenance.
My “Forever Flower” Preference
“I would love my memorial to feature ____________ (e.g., Carnations, Roses or Native Banksias). Please use Faux Flowers so they last through the seasons.”
Part 4: Finding The Words
“Thank You” Message Templates
When grief is raw, finding the correct etiquette or words to thank people can feel impossible. We have prepared these templates for you to copy, paste, and personalise for cards, emails, or social media.
Simply click the Copy Text button to copy the message to your clipboard, then paste to a word or other document to keep.
For Attending
“Thank you for joining us to celebrate the life of [Name]. Your presence and support meant the world to us during this difficult time. It was comforting to see how many lives [he/she] touched.”
For Flowers
“Thank you for the stunning [Flower Type] arrangement. The flowers are beautiful, and knowing they will remain at the memorial as a lasting tribute brings us great comfort.”
For Donations
“We were so touched by your generous donation to [Charity Name] in honour of [Name]. This cause was very close to [his/her] heart, and your gift is a wonderful way to carry on [his/her] legacy.”
For Practical Help
“Thank you so much for the delicious meals and for checking in on us. Having one less thing to worry about has been a huge relief. Your kindness and friendship have kept us going.”
For Clergy/Celebrant
“Thank you for conducting such a beautiful farewell for [Name]. Your guidance, warmth, and choice of words captured [his/her] spirit perfectly. You made a difficult day much easier to bear.”
For Social Media
“The family of [Name] would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for the overwhelming kindness, messages, and flowers we have received. Your support has been a light during a dark time.”
“A legacy is not leaving something for people. It’s leaving something in people.”
Speak From The Heart
Every flower carries a meaning. We have compiled the ultimate guide to help you choose the bloom that tells your story.
Browse the Ultimate A-Z Symbolism Guide
Already know your favorite flower?
Record it in your Beyond Life Planner, so your family knows exactly what to choose.