[DonDavis]

That's a tough situation. I'm guessing you already know what I'm going to say but here goes. Let Mom do what she wants, nay, NEEDS. Funerals are for the living. She knew Dad a lot longer and differently than you. That's not to say you don't have the right to offer input or make requests. Just keep it in perspective. You're a cool guy and that reflects upon how your Pop raised you.

And in my most humble opinion, my body is a vessel with which I'm through using upon my passing. Don't get too wrapped up in the process. Pray for peace, understanding and family. All we can do is prepare for our own passing and specify how we'd like things to go.

My Mom passed last May and I found it interesting that her small life insurance policy was nearly exactly the same amount as the funeral home's fees. And during the services, we had some of her favorite Elvis music ( the slower songs ) playing softly. One of the song's recording level was a bit higher than the others. My sister got really upset and felt it was disrespectful. That was just the pain of the loss speaking. Nobody else noticed or thought otherwise. I did what I could to calm her and things smoothed out.

Another thing, my sisters wanted to have a LOT of flowers, arrangements and displays. I disagreed, completely. But I held my tongue and let them mourn their way. At the florist, they kept encouraging me to get bigger and bigger arrangements. I had long ago decided what I wanted and stuck to it. It was simple, personal and beautiful. My kids loved what I picked. That was my way of saying farewell and nothing was going to deter me from that.

I hope things go well.