Header image for: Humor at Funerals? Some People Actually Want That, Apparently.

Humor at Funerals? Some People Actually Want That, Apparently.

By Leo Parks Ā· 5/15/2026

A Little Laughter to Ease the Pain: Top Ten Funeral One-Liners

By Leo Parks, Jape News Staff

Funerals. They’re…well, they’re tough. Everyone’s sad, you're supposed to be respectful, and honestly, I always worry about saying the wrong thing. But recently, I’ve been reading about how a little bit of humor can actually be a really nice way to celebrate someone's life. Not like, making fun, obviously, but… acknowledging the funny side of things.

Apparently, a lot of people feel the same way, pre-planning little jokes for their own send-offs. I did some digging, and compiled a list of ten things people have actually requested be said at their funerals. It’s a bit… unexpected, to be honest, but honestly, it's kinda heartwarming? Here’s what I found.

Coming in at number ten, we have a simple plea: ā€œIf any of you cry at my funeral, I’ll never speak to you again!ā€ A bit stern, maybe, but it definitely sets a tone, doesn’t it?

Nine is a charmingly quirky request from a grandmother: ā€œDon’t cry because I’m gone, cry because the casket closed before I could take my knitting needles with me.ā€ That’s…specific. And funny!

At number eight is a rather… visceral statement: ā€œA good belly laugh is like taking your liver for a horseback ride.ā€ I… I don’t even know what to say about that one. It's certainly memorable.

Number seven is a bit of a party starter, apparently. Someone wanted their funeral to be ā€œlike my wedding, with people wearing bright colors and dancing.ā€ Sounds like a fun goodbye!

Taking the number six spot is a request for vibrant attire: ā€œMy buddy insisted that at his funeral we should all wear Hawaiian shirts instead of black. He said, ā€˜If you’re going to remember me, remember me at my most annoying.ā€™ā€ I’m picturing a sea of floral prints.

At number five, things get a little mysterious. Someone wanted it announced that their final words were, ā€œThe treasure is buried under theā€“ā€ Talk about leaving everyone guessing!

Four goes to a relatable sentiment: ā€œHe wanted everyone to know that a life of avoiding manual labor actually paid off.ā€ Honestly, who hasn’t dreamed of that?

Number three is a bit of a stingy declaration: ā€œOne of the people in this room is responsible for Blaine’s death…you know who you areā€¦ā€ Yikes. Talk about awkward. I'd be looking around nervously if I heard that.

And almost at the top, at number two, is a surprisingly practical note: ā€œBlaine wanted all of you to know that he’s not funding a buffet dinner afterwards. You get a show, not a meal.ā€ A man who knew his priorities.

Finally, at number one, we have a wonderfully whimsical image: ā€œHe is gone to that place where all lost socks disappear to – the great beyond.ā€ It's just…perfectly silly.

Look, funerals are still sad, okay? I’m not suggesting we all turn them into stand-up routines. But maybe, just maybe, a little bit of lightheartedness can help us remember the good times, and celebrate the life that was lived. And honestly, if I could choose, I’d probably go with the lost socks one. Seems…safe.

šŸ“° Jape News