If one wants to be respected after death, lead such a life. Otherwise, one should expect this stuff to be written after one's death. I don't see any reason to gloss over things just because someone has died. I wouldn't bring this sort of thing up at his funeral, however, but that isn't out of respect for the deceased - since they aren't alive to take offense or anything. It is more being kind to the friends and family that is there. I'm gonna guess a few were glad he was dead, just wouldn't admit it.

I only agree with a few points in the article myself, but I understand how such a viewpoint can be written. Folks said such things before he died as well. Only seems natural to have this now.

The way I see it, one's comments about another immediately after his passing are as much a reflection of one's own character as they are an opinion about the deceased.

Sure. I have no respect for someone just because they happen to have died, and am honest about it. Dead folks can't take offense, and I think the family members and friends should have the frame of mind to be honest about he deceased life. That's it.

It isn't like the respect is universal. A mass murder dies? It's quite alright to bring up his/her crimes. Serial rapist? Sure, it'll be brought up. Open racism? Yup, it'll probably be reported. Few complain. (I do not believe Hugh was on the level of these folks. Man wasn't perfect, though).

Indeed, it's a shame that this op-ed wasn't written while he was alive so he could read it himself. But then it would never have received so much attention.