How do you settle an estate in Kentucky if the person leaves only their personal belongings? He leaves 2 minor children, an ex-wife, brother, mother and father. Is it necessary to appoint an executor and go through the legal system, especially if all surviving parties are amicable?

It is a little more complicated even if everyone is amicable. He may have debts, contracts, liens and the like. You would be wise to have an attorney handle the estate closing. Even though he is divorced his ex could possible be liable for debts if she was part of the debt during marriage. I guess he had no will since you did not mention it, right?

Did he have a will, did that will appoint an executor? Were there any debts? Any cash assets?