04/03/2026
Funeral Friday đź’¬
What if I don’t want my family to be in charge of my funeral? Can I choose who is?
This is a question more people are asking! The legal next of kin is determined using Kentucky Revised Statues (KRS) 367.93117.
While laws vary by state, many allow you to legally designate a specific person to carry out your final wishes. This can be a trusted friend, partner, or anyone you feel will honor your preferences. In Kentucky, we use a Funeral Planning Declaration (FPD). You can read all about the specifics of the FPD in KRS 367.93103. You can also find the FPD on the Attorney General's Website (ag.ky.gov) under the resources and programs tab within the business forms selection for Cemeteries, Funeral Homes, and Crematoria.
Here are a few important tips, if you are concerned your wishes will not be followed by your legal next of kin:
✔️ Complete a Funeral Planning Declaration
✔️ Communicate your wishes openly with both your chosen person and your family
✔️ A declaration is not binding upon a funeral home, a cemetery, or any person
engaged in the business of providing funeral services, selling merchandise or grave
markers, or providing a service or other property subject to the declaration until the funeral home, cemetery, or person receives full payment for the service,
merchandise, or other property. This may push you to consider pre-planning and pre-funding your funeral to ensure your arrangements are clearly outlined and fulfilled.
Planning ahead can ease emotional stress and prevent confusion or disagreements during a difficult time. Most importantly, it gives you peace of mind knowing your wishes will be respected.
At Heady-Radcliffe Funeral Home & Cremation Services, we’re here to answer any questions you may have—no pressure, just support.
📞 Reach out anytime to start the conversation.