My parents have asked us (siblings) how we plan to divide up their possessions when they're gone. They are uncomfortable making firm decisions and putting them in their wills, especially "one of a kind" sentimental items like moms wedding rings. If your family used a process that worked well (or was a disaster) it would be great to hear from you. My sibs perceive inequitable giving to each other by my parents in the past and I will be executor putting me on the hot seat to be fair to all. They want to know this will be done fairly before they go. Thank you.
In my case, mom disowned me and everything went to my sister. God only knows what happened to everything promised to me and my children or the things we had loaned mom. We would've liked some of my father's items but in the end, it wasn't worth fighting over. Family dysfunction was alive and well, mom made sure of that.
I hope you get a plan of action in place Dahlia beforehand. Grief, sadness, and yes, greed can make even the best of us turn into people you don't know.