I think this is a really tough one. My inclination would be to focus on what I see as a need for reassurance. And I think I have an answer that works for me, comforting without being dishonest about my beliefs -- which a good friend would certainly already know. I think that regardless of whether we just don't know whether there is a god (or gods) or adamantly disbelieve, I think it's safe that we do not know what happens after we die. Certainly there's no objective evidence.

So here's what I'd say -- "I do not know. I do think that as long as people remember us and continue to love us that we live on. I don't believe we disappear. And there are a lot of people who will love and remember you fondly."

Let them believe what they want to believe, it's personal.

And likewise when I go please don't pray for me, or have any kind of service. Straight to cremation and then into the firebox of either Puffing Billy 6A or WW&F #9.

Good read, thank you for sharing.

If there afraid... i tell them what they want to hear.

link worked. At least that mystery was solved