WHO IS ACTUALLY IN CHARGE OF A FUNERAL ARRANGEMENT? IS IT THE EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE?
It may be the executor, but not necessarily. The person actually in charge is the next of kin, in which order is specifically spelled out by Ohio law 2105.06 Statute of descent and distribution. A spouse has ultimate control, followed by adult children, parents, and siblings. In the case of no spouse and several children, all the children must agree to the arrangements. The estate of the deceased is not usually involved in funeral arrangements, as the funeral will almost always precede any reading of a will and opening of an estate. There have been court cases involving children who did not agree as to funeral arrangements (burial vs. cremation), and services will be delayed until the court makes a decision. Fortunately, these cases are extremely rare.
