Losing a loved one is deeply difficult, and funeral planning is a daunting task when grieving. While some people preplan their arrangements, some do not, leaving the decisions up to their surviving family. Here is a guide to paying a loving farewell when your family member leaves no final wishes.

How to Honor Your Loved One Without Preplanned Funeral Instructions

Legal Steps

When the person who has died hasn’t left instructions regarding their final wishes, legally the decision is left up to next-of-kin. If for some reason that relative is unable to make those decisions, planning falls to the next available relative.

There is a hierarchy of people that the law will follow to determine who can make decisions and who is capable of planning. Spouses or domestic partners are first, followed by children, parents, and siblings in that order. The next set includes legal guardians, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and cousins. Whoever it is must be at least 18 years old, and if no family is available, a close friend can be appointed.

Each state handles the process differently, but most require an affidavit form authenticating who will control the memorial and burial plans. In the state of Alabama, persons must follow the steps laid out in Section 34-13-11 for appointing an authorizing agent and disposition of remains.

How to Avoid Disagreements

No matter the law and the hierarchy of available family, sometimes surviving loved ones disagree over the funeral arrangements. The best approach is to avoid letting emotions get in the way and focus on what the deceased would have wanted. Take into account their likes, dislikes, favorite pieces of music, hobbies, and cultural or religious beliefs. Staying focused on the loved one who has passed will help keep discrepancies at bay and ensure an appropriate tribute and goodbye.

When you need help with funeral arrangements for a loved one, trust Johnson Funeral Home & Monuments in Monroeville, AL. Their compassionate team brings more than 65 years of experience, ensuring your service is the perfect way to honor the deceased’s legacy. The professional staff will guide you through every step, including writing obituaries and deciding between burial and cremation. Call (251) 575-3222 to begin or visit them online.