As a web developer, I’ve had the privilege of working with many wonderful clients over the years. I just received some sad news that brought to light an important topic I’d like to share with you all.
I was deeply heartbroken to learn that my elderly client, Judy Alter, had passed away last week. Judy was an amazing and versatile author whose website I had the pleasure of maintaining for almost ten years. Her passing reminded me of an important conversation we had last year— one that I now realize was even more significant than I thought at the time.
You see, I had a previous experience with another elderly client who passed away unexpectedly. In that instance, I contacted his associates to see whether or not they were interested in taking the ownership of the website, or if they had any advice for me regarding the website’s fate. Most didn’t reply and those that did, were not interested. I was unable to contact his family. Out of respect, I ended up keeping his website running for several years, before reluctantly letting it go. It was a very difficult decision for me to determine how to proceed with the digital presence he had left behind.
Learning from this experience, I decided to have a conversation with Judy about her website should anything happen to her. I told her that I was hesitant to broach such a sensitive subject, but Judy— bless her heart— was incredibly understanding and agreeable.
She provided me with her children’s contact information and we decided that should anything happen to her, I would keep her website running for a minimum of five years or as long as possible; this way, people could continue to enjoy learning about her books and reading her blog posts. This would allow her legacy to live on in the digital world!
As I reflect on Judy’s passing, I’m grateful for the discussion we had. It has made this difficult time a little easier to navigate from a professional standpoint, and I know I’m honoring her wishes.
This experience has reinforced for me the importance of discussing digital legacies with clients. As more of our lives and work exist online, it’s important to have a plan in place for our digital assets.
So, I urge you— regardless of your age and health, whether you’re a website owner, content creator, or anyone with an online presence— to have this conversation with your web developer, partner, or digital service provider. Discuss what you’d like to happen to your website, social media accounts, or other digital properties in the event of your passing. It may feel uncomfortable, but it’s an important step in preserving your online presence and making things easier for yourself and for your loved ones.
To Judy— thank you so much for being one of my favorite clients! Even though we’ve never met in person, you doted on me. You were so patient and understanding. I thoroughly enjoyed our little chats alongside our email exchanges about your website and social media. I and many others will miss you so, so much. Even though you’ve left us, your stories remain, your legacy lives on through your website to continue and inspire your readers.
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If you have questions about this particular subject or need assistance, contact me and I will be happy to help.
—Tabby
Pictured below is an old banner I made for Judy’s social media. She had requested a custom banner with a very handmade appearance. This was done using mouse on a desktop computer.
