I'm not one to reach out like this but the events that have transpired over the past weeks are about as unexpected as they come.
If you are family, then you already know I've always had a hard time asking for anything in general.

My mother recently passed away due to a pulmonary embolism.

As we have taken up the task of going through the things she has left behind and reaching out to friends and family,  the biggest unknown has reared it's head in the form of: How do we pay for the funeral arrangements?
And the answer I was settling on was: as best we can. The family is doing the best it can, as am I, but this year has hit everyone rather hard. I'm sure if you're reading this, it's probably been rough on you too.

I should say this before moving onto the reason for making this request.
If you met my mother before, you were meeting someone with a wicked sense of humor, a great smile, and enough cooking knowledge to fill a library of books. She was the lady who fed the kids on the block when I came back from playing outside. Same one who brought drinks for the garbage men on hot summer days. Same one who looked out after her elderly neighbors when they couldn't do for themselves. Like anyone's relationship with their parents, it was beautiful and complicated all at the same time. But it was no less special. If you are family, then this will come as no surprise to you.

The amount listed is close enough to the total amount including paying the staff, transportation of the remains, etc.  No obligation to do so and no ill will if you cannot. Like I said, it's been a hard year. The fact that you're reading this request is, in itself, appreciated.

Her memorial service will be held on Friday, October 16th.