Pina's family and friends have been asking Patty for information about the late Bob McKim's memorial service. Patty says Robert L. McKim Sr. is in charge of the service and regrets to inform them that they are unwelcome to attend.
After the death, Pina's family contacted Bob's father's immediate relatives, all of whom said they were financially incapable of assisting with his final arrangements. Bob's father had pre-arranged - but not prepaid - for his funeral. Pina and her daughters were unable to cover the full cost of the pre-arranged plans, but raised enough money for cremation, separate services for each family, and burial expenses.
Although Bob's father's will named Pina as executor, she was not specifically identified as the person responsible for the service or in charge of his remains.
In this situation, the state of Florida specifies the next of kin becomes responsible for the body.
Pina and Bob's wedding was a "Companion commitment ceremony," not a legally binding marriage, so Robert L. McKim Sr. is the next of kin.
Patty is given to understand that Robert L. McKim Sr. has arranged to have the body cremated, ordered that the ashes and 5 death certificates be sent to Ohio, and intends to hold a private grave-site service interring his father's ashes beside his mother's. Rev. Bob is solely responsible for making these arrangements and all money due, and he has chosen to exclude Pina's family and friends.
In comments, friends and relatives express their condolences and suggest Patty should retain a lawyer.
