From what I've heard (I could be wrong, I'm not saying this is fact so don't shoot at me;)), if both your parents die or are unable to take care of you for whatever reason, you will be left with the closest relative that can best support you, if there are none, you will most likely be given to a foster home.

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Originally Posted by lostinatrance

From what I've heard (I could be wrong, I'm not saying this is fact so don't shoot at me;)), if both your parents die or are unable to take care of you for whatever reason, you will be left with the closest relative that can best support you, if there are none, you will most likely be given to a foster home.

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BANG! ;)

Seriously, you are correct. Absent specific instructions in the parents will, the nearest relative that is willing to accept guardianship will get it. If there are multiple relatives willing to take the child in, the child's preferences will be listened to, but a judge will make the final determination based on the best interests of the child.