Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite

I live in the south where funerals are important. I’ve never enjoyed going to funerals and usually have done so out of respect for the family. Two funerals stand out in my mind. Terry enjoyed life to the fullest. He was a large man with a reddish complexion. He was in his late 50s when he unexpectedly died. His funeral was a tribute to his life. His children told funny stories, read poems and sang. The service ended with the song “Spirit In the Sky,” Becky was in her late 70s when she passed away. Her funeral was also a tribute to her life. Family and friends told stories about Becky: stories about a monkey, lamps, and her flair for talking. Again it was a celebration. Both had preplanned their funeral.

Too often funerals are thrown together at the last minute without a great deal of thought. I want to plan my own funeral. I want people to remember me for my smile and playfulness. I want people to smile and may even laugh as they remember me.

When The Sun Goes Down disc uses the why of having a funeral. Grief is a natural process. A funeral allows you the opportunity to celebrate that life. A funeral allows a time of transition. Betty Breuhaus continues by discussing structure of the service, choosing a funeral home, types of services, receptions and obituaries. One section is on Ethical Wills. An ethical will is an opportunity to give unsolicited advice, share moral or religious lessons, and family history, The last section of this book is a workbook. If you will fill in the blanks and give this book to a loved one it will specifically explain your wants and desires.

I cannot stress enough the need to preplan a funeral. Having someone die unexpectedly is mind numbing. Save your loved one the pain of making plans for you. Buy your copy of When the Sun Goes Down to assist you in planning your final celebration.