The $40,000 Funeral

Larry died. His will provided $40,000 for an elaborate funeral. As the last guests departed the affair, his wife

Sarah turned to her oldest and dearest friend. "Will, I'm sure Larry would be pleased," she said. "I'm sure you're right," replied Jody, who lowered her voice and leaned in close. "How much did this really cost?"

"All of it," said Sarah. "Forty-thousand."

"No!" Jody exclaimed. "I mean, it was very nice, but $40,000.00"

Sarah answered, "The funeral was $6,500. I donated $500.00 to the church. The whiskey, wine, and snacks

were another $500. The rest went for the Memorial Stone."

Judy computed quickly. "$32,500 for a Memorial Stone? My goodness, how big is it?"

"Four and a half carats."

Jim Anton; 42109 email