When it comes to obituaries, most families highlight the deceased’s admirable traits and achievements. However, one family chose to take a radically different approach when their less-than-stellar patriarch passed away. Instead of sugarcoating his legacy, they opted for a brutally honest obituary that painted a vivid picture of their father’s controversial life.
Barry Thompson fought a long battle with cancer before passing away at the age of 74 in Austin, Texas. He left behind two children, a few grandchildren, and an ex-wife, all seemingly relieved to see him go. The obituary, penned by Barry’s daughter and endorsed by the family, was anything but conventional. It quickly gained attention, even crashing the funeral home’s website.
In a cathartic release, the obituary laid bare the toxicity Barry brought into their lives. “Barry’s life had little purpose; he never contributed positively to society or his family, and his only redeeming quality was his sarcastic sense of humor – when he was sober,” it stated. “His absence will be felt only for the things he never was: a loving father, husband, or friend.”
Curious about what led to such a scathing tribute? The local news provided a summary of Barry’s less-than-legal escapades, including multiple arrests for offenses that would make any family cringe.
The family felt compelled to share their experiences, stating, “Barry exemplified the worst traits of parenting combined with addiction and a propensity for being offensive.” His daughter emphasized that the obituary was meant to provide closure, adding, “His passing signifies that evil has indeed departed, and we hope it brings healing and safety for all.”
Writing an obituary for someone you despise is no easy task. While many families choose to gloss over the negative aspects, the Thompsons were unflinching in their honesty. In a conversation with a local news outlet, Barry’s daughter explained her rationale for the candid obituary. She believed that her father, who “hated dishonesty,” would have appreciated the truth. “I apologize to anyone he hurt; I felt it was vital to portray him accurately. Ignoring domestic violence doesn’t make it disappear!”
To further underline their sentiments, the family decided to forgo a funeral. Instead, Barry’s remains would be cremated and stored until they could be disposed of properly. “No services will be held; there will be no prayers or apologies for the pain he caused. Barry’s ashes will be kept in the barn until the donkey’s wood shavings run out,” they declared.
In the end, the family’s bold obituary served as a raw tribute to a man they felt deserved no glorification. Here’s hoping they find the peace and closure they seek after such a harsh yet honest farewell.
For those interested in understanding more about the complexities of family dynamics and the journey to parenthood, check out our other blog posts like this one on home insemination.
Summary: A family in Austin, Texas, chose to write a brutally honest obituary for their father, Barry Thompson, who had a troubled life marked by addiction and legal issues. The candid tribute provided them with closure and highlighted their struggles, sparking conversations about honesty in memorials.