Can't afford to live! Can't afford to die!

On the 28th of March, I received the phone call my best friend had passed away.

At the grand old age of 87, my dear friend lay on her bed and drifted off to sleep for ever.

A kind, loving woman, always up for a giggle.

Well organised to the end, she had made sure that funds were put by for the costs of laying her to rest, and a legal will completed, so everything would be as easy as possible to lower the stress that comes with being executor.

Sadly what no-body told her is how many different people would want a piece of her once she is gone.

As she had lived away from the parish for more than 10 years, where the double plot her husband lay waiting for her is,

the interment of the grave would be £325.00, instead of £0 had she still been in the parish.

The Cannon for his part, £145.00

The organist, £85.00

The heating and lighting bill, (for half an hour) £75.00!

The Hearse, £200.00

Cars, £200.00 each

Transport of her body from coroner to undertakers, £270

Undertakers fees, (including coffin) £3200.00

To clean the headstone and add tribute to her, £500.00

4 weeks "notice to quit" rent charged from the housing association that owns her warden controlled flat, £356.00

£200.00 for the removal men to empty her flat.

Dying is not for the poor.

I suggest, if you know how, avoid it!