5 Things People Regret Not Saying Before Someone Dies

A Wildflower Funeral Concepts blog post

We never think the last conversation will be the last. And then suddenly, it is.

At Wildflower Funeral Concepts, we’ve had the sacred privilege of holding space for people in their deepest moments of grief and reflection. Again and again, we’ve heard the same few regrets whispered through tears — the things people wished they had said when they still had the chance.

If this post finds you with someone still here — someone you love, someone who shaped you — we hope it inspires you to say the words now, before the moment passes.

Here are 5 things people often regret not saying before someone died:

1. “I forgive you.” Sometimes the hardest thing to say is the one that sets us free.We don’t have to forget. We don’t have to minimize the hurt.But the grief we carry after someone is gone can double when we’ve left old wounds unspoken.

Even a simple, “I know we had our differences, but I want peace between us,” can open the door.

2. “I’m sorry.” It’s astonishing how many people live with the ache of never saying sorry.Even small misunderstandings can loom large after a loss.

Whether it’s an apology for a past argument, a missed phone call, or the time you didn’t show up — saying “I’m sorry” doesn’t just help them, it unburdens you. 3. “Thank you.” Gratitude unspoken is gratitude wasted. Thank them for the big things — raising you, loving you, showing up. Thank them for the small things, too — the way they always made coffee just right, or how they called to check on you when no one else did.

People need to know they mattered. Don’t wait to tell them. 4. “I love you.” It sounds simple. But too many people assume their love is understood.

Say it out loud. Say it often. Say it awkwardly, tearfully, at the wrong time — but say it.

Love withheld becomes regret. Love spoken becomes legacy. 5. “Tell me your story.” This one surprises people. Many regret not asking more questions: “What was it like growing up?” “What’s something you wish I knew?” “What’s your proudest moment?”

People crave being known. And when they’re gone, their stories are gone too — unless someone takes the time to ask and listen. Here’s the truth: none of us get out of this life untouched by grief. But what we can do is make our love known while we’re still here.

At Wildflower Funeral Concepts, we believe in conscious farewells — in beauty, honesty, and saying what needs to be said. Whether you’re pre-planning or in the middle of loss, we’re here to hold space for all of it.

What do YOU wish you had said — or did say — before someone passed? Share in the comments. Your story might help someone else speak up today!

About Wildflower Funeral Concepts Wildflower Funeral Concepts is a modern, eco-friendly funeral home located in the heart of Ferndale, Washington — proudly serving families across Whatcom County and beyond. We specialize in green burial, aquamation, terramation (natural organic reduction), and sustainable cremation services. Whether you’re seeking funeral pre-planning, compassionate grief support, or thoughtful guidance through loss, we’re here with kindness, integrity, and a deep sense of community. From veterans services to natural farewells rooted in love and ecology, Wildflower offers a new way to honor life — gently, honestly, and consciously.