With the recent passing of the incomparable Gene Hackman, I found myself reflecting on mortality and legacy. Not in a morbid way, mind you, but in that contemplative space where we consider how we want to be remembered.

It brought to mind one of Hackman’s most memorable roles as Royal Tenenbaum in Wes Anderson’s “The Royal Tenenbaums.” If you’ve seen the film, you might recall Royal’s headstone—a perfectly concise epitaph that read:

“Royal O’Reilly Tenenbaum (1932-2001) Died tragically rescuing his family from the wreckage of a destroyed sinking battleship.”

The beauty of this fictitious epitaph isn’t just its absurd falsehood (Royal died of a heart attack after years of relatively selfish behavior), but how it captures his character’s lifelong desire to be seen as heroic despite his flaws.

The Headstone Question

This begs an important question I often discuss with clients: What do you want on your tombstone? Or, more broadly, how do you want to be remembered?

The question might seem trivial, even morbid to some. But it’s actually one of the most profound considerations in comprehensive estate planning. Your final arrangements aren’t just about asset distribution—they’re your final statement to the world.

Beyond the Paperwork

As estate planning attorneys, we often focus on the technical aspects: wills, trusts, power of attorney documents. These are unquestionably important. But equally significant are the personal elements that reflect your individuality.

For me personally? I want a celebration of life where Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” plays while everyone joins in with kazoos. No joke. Those who know me understand this blend of reverence and whimsy fits my personality perfectly.

But what about you?

Options You May Not Have Considered

Estate planning offers more creative possibilities than many realize:

• Body donation to science: A lasting contribution to medical research and education
• Theme-based memorial services: From literature to music to hobbies
• Alternative burial options: Green burials, tree pod burials, memorial reefs
• Digital legacies: How your online presence continues (or doesn’t)
• Choreographed farewells: Yes, like the dancing pallbearers in My Chemical Romance’s “Helena” video (which, admittedly, would require some rehearsal)

Making It Happen: The Practical Side

Of course, your perfect send-off requires planning and, often, funding. This is where practical estate planning meets personal expression:

1. Document your wishes clearly: Specific instructions should be included in your estate planning documents
2. Appoint the right people: Choose executors and trustees who understand and respect your vision
3. Consider financial arrangements: Life insurance policies can cover costs without burdening your family (especially important if you’re planning something elaborate like a My Chemical Romance-inspired dance sequence)
4. Communicate your wishes: Don’t leave your loved ones guessing

Legacy Beyond the Headstone

While the tombstone question provides an interesting entry point, legacy planning goes further. How will your values continue? What lessons do you hope to impart? What stories do you want retold?

The Greatest Gift

Perhaps the greatest gift you can give your loved ones isn’t a perfectly planned memorial service or a clever epitaph, but clarity. The peace of mind that comes from knowing exactly what you wanted and having the means to honor those wishes.

At the Law Offices of Shann M. Chaudhry, we believe estate planning should reflect not just your assets, but your personality and values. Whether you want a traditional service or kazoos playing “Free Bird,” we’re here to ensure your final wishes are documented properly and your loved ones have the resources to carry them out.

So, what do you want on your tombstone? It’s a question worth answering—preferably long before anyone needs to know.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific estate planning guidance tailored to your situation, please contact our offices in San Antonio or Austin.