Planning ahead for your funeral might feel difficult, but for many in Guernsey, making an expression of wishes has become a thoughtful way to ease the burden on loved ones. By clearly stating your funeral wishes, you not only take control of your final send-off but also give your family peace of mind during one of life’s most challenging times.

What Is an Expression of Wishes?

An expression of wishes is a written statement outlining how you would like your funeral to be conducted. It’s different from a will, which deals with legal and financial matters. Instead, this document focuses on the personal aspects of your farewell, the details that reflect your values, beliefs, and personality.

Importantly, an expression of funeral wishes is not legally binding in Guernsey. However, families and executors typically do their best to honour these wishes, especially when they are clearly written and easily accessible.

What Can You Include?

Every person’s preferences are unique, but some of the most common elements covered in an expression of wishes form include:

• Burial or cremation preference
• The type of service (religious, non-religious, celebration of life, humanist)
• Choices for music, readings, or speakers
• Your preferred clothing, coffin style, or flowers
• Whether you’d like a particular memorial or scattering of ashes

You can be as detailed or as simple as you like. Some people include specific hymns or poems, while others just state a general tone or theme they'd like for the day.

How to Document Your Funeral Wishes

There’s no single correct way to record your funeral wishes. Options include:

• A handwritten letter or note
• A typed list of preferences stored with your important documents
• A formal expression of wishes form
• A discussion with your next of kin or executor, ideally followed by something in writing

The key is making sure your wishes are clear, accessible, and shared with someone you trust. It’s also helpful to revisit your choices every few years in case your preferences change.

Beckfords’ Expression of Wishes Form

At Beckfords Funeral Services, we know how meaningful it can be to plan ahead. That’s why we offer a free, easy-to-complete Expression of Wishes form for anyone in Guernsey who wants to record their preferences.

This online form covers all the important details, from cremation or burial to music, readings, and other personal touches. Once completed, your form will be securely filed with us, but we encourage you to share it with your family or keep a copy with your important papers. This form allows you to easily update it if your preferences change. 

If you need help filling it out or want to speak to someone about your options, the Beckfords team is here to guide you with compassion and care.

A Simple Act of Kindness

Taking the time to express your funeral wishes is more than just planning ahead, it’s a gift of clarity for the people you care about most. In a time of grief, knowing exactly what you would have wanted can bring enormous comfort to your family and reduce the burden of decision-making.

If you would like to start the process Beckfords offers free digital and in-person expression of wishes. Create a free account on the Beckfords website to begin your digital form, which you can update anytime. If you would prefer doing it in person, contact us to arrange a free in-person consultation.