August 4, 2025
Creating a Will is an act of love—not just for the end of life, but for all of it. No matter your age, income, or life stage, a Will ensures your wishes are honored, your loved ones are protected, and your voice is heard when it matters most.
Whether you’re 25 or 75, life can chance in an instant. A Will puts you in in control—of who cares for your children or pets, who inherits your belongings, and how your legacy lives on. It also brings peace of mind to those you leave behind.
“After my brother passed unexpectedly at age 32 without a Will, our family had to make difficult decisions without guidance. Family disagreements made an already challenging time even harder. That experience pushed me to write my own Will. It’s the last gift of love I can leave behind.”
– Jason M., family member
Most people own things— big or small – vehicles, bank accounts, furniture, jewelry, family heirlooms, or sentimental keepsakes—that hold personal or financial value. A Will lets you decide who receives your possessions, not the state.
No matter how close your family is or how clear you’ve expressed your wishes, verbal promises have no legal weight. If you die without a Will, state laws determine who inherits your assets, often excluding stepchildren, unmarried partners, or close friends. A written Will prevents emotional disputes and costly legal battles by providing clear instructions during a stressful time.
If something were to happen to you, who would raise your children—or care for your pets? A Will lets you choose, avoiding court involvement or family uncertainty.
While an attorney is invaluable for complex situations, most people can confidentially create a legally valid Will on their own. Online platforms like FreeWill make it easy to create a legally valid Will for free.
Life changes fast—marriage, children, homeownership, or career changes. Reviewing your Will every 3–5 years ensures it still reflects your life and values.
St. Augustine Health Ministries has partnered with FreeWill, a free resource that allows you to create or update your will in about 20 minutes. This secure online tool helps you protect your loved ones, documents your wishes, and ensures that your values live on through thoughtful planning.
As you take this important step, you will also have the option to include a legacy gift to causes that have touched your life. If St. Augustine or Holy Family have been part of your journey, a planned gift of any size helps ensure that future generations experience the same joy, safety, and dignity that our residents and patients feel today.
