Why ‘I Wish I Had Worked More’ Won’t Be on My Headstone—And I Hope That Serving Others Will Always Be My Legacy

If there’s one thing the Irish have mastered besides storytelling and perfectly pulling a pint of Guinness, it’s crafting unforgettable epitaphs. Wander through an Irish cemetery, and you will find gravestones that are equal parts poignant, witty and downright hilarious. Beyond commemorating lives, these epitaphs capture personalities, humor and a touch of that Irish knack for never taking life, or death, too seriously.

Take, for example, the epitaph of comedian Spike Milligan, whose gravestone reads: “I told you I was ill.” Or the gravestone of one unfortunate soul in Galway that declares: “Here lies the body of John Murphy, who was accidentally shot by his brother. Rest in peace.” Talk about airing the family laundry!

Now, imagine strolling through that same cemetery and stumbling upon a headstone that reads: “I wish I had worked more.” That epitaph? Not likely. And it certainly will not be mine.

A Legacy Worth Laughing About

The Irish epitaph tradition reminds us that life isn’t just about the grind. It’s about the stories, the laughter and the relationships we leave behind. We often find meaning in how we have served others. Whether it’s mentoring a younger colleague, volunteering in the community or simply being the person who always remembers to bring maple donuts to morning meetings, these acts of service add depth to our lives and a touch of sweetness to our legacy.

What Will My Headstone Say?

In true Irish fashion, I have given this some thought. Here are a few contenders for my epitaph: 

• “Loving husband. Doting father. Okay driver.”
• “Still making them laugh, even now.”
• Or if I’m lucky…

“Dedicated to his family, dentistry and service.
A voice for others, a legacy of excellence.
May his kindness and leadership continue to inspire.”

While humor may top the list, I hope my epitaph reflects the service I’ve given to others. After all, being remembered for lifting others up is far more satisfying than being remembered for checking off every item on a to-do list.

Epitaphs That Inspire (and Entertain)

If you’re inspired to plan your own epitaph, here are a few more gems straight from the Irish playbook for a bit of inspiration:

• “Here lies an atheist—all dressed up and nowhere to go.”
• “He loved bacon and beer; may he find plenty of both.”
• “She finally found time to rest.”

Humor helps us confront life’s brevity with grace and levity. It reminds us that while our days may be numbered, they are still ours to enjoy, share and make meaningful.

So no, “I wish I had worked more” won’t be on my headstone. Instead, I hope it will reflect the laughter I shared, the service I gave and maybe–just maybe–one last joke for the road. After all, why leave life without one last laugh?

What would your epitaph say?