How to manage a deceased loved one’s Facebook account

Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with their digital life can add another layer of stress during an already difficult time.

John from Northampton, Pennsylvania, reached out with a question that many people face but few know how to handle: “Please explain how to remove a deceased person’s Facebook account.”

John, we’re very sorry for your loss, and you’re not alone in wondering what to do next. Managing a deceased person’s Facebook presence can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to start. Facebook does offer a few options depending on whether you’d like to preserve their account as a memorial or have it removed entirely. Here’s what you need to know, along with how to protect their digital legacy from misuse.

When Facebook is made aware that someone has passed away, their policy is to memorialize the account. This turns the profile into a digital tribute, serving as a space where friends and family can gather, share memories and view photos and posts. A memorialized account:

• Displays the word “Remembering” next to the person’s name
• Preserves content they posted during their lifetime
• Prevents anyone from logging into the account
• Can only be managed by a legacy contact (if one was assigned)

Memorializing an account not only honors the person’s memory but also adds a layer of security by locking the account from unauthorized access. Anyone can request a Facebook account be memorialized if they believe the user has passed away, but only verified immediate family or a legacy contact can manage the account afterward.

For more information see Kurt Knutsson “How to manage a deceased loved one’s Facebook account” Fox News, April 21, 2025. 

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/trusts_estates_prof/2025/04/how-to-manage-a-deceased-loved-ones-facebook-account.html