The family of late Nollywood veteran, Chief Francis Duru, has announced that the actor will be buried on Friday, December 11, 2026, in his hometown in Imo State, over a month after his passing threw the Nigerian movie industry into mourning.

The burial arrangements were disclosed in a funeral statement shared on the actor’s official Instagram page on Monday, November 2, 2026, titled “FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS,” and jointly signed on behalf of the family by his first son, Ebuka Duru, and his sister, Anthonia Chenyi, née Duru.

According to the statement, activities to honour his life and legacy will begin with a Service of Songs and Tributes in Abuja on Wednesday, November 25, 2026, by 5:00 PM at the Family Worship Centre, Idris Gidado Street, Wuye, Abuja, inviting colleagues, friends and well-wishers.

The family added that a second Service of Songs and Tributes will hold in Imo State on Thursday, December 10, 2026, at the late Pa Theophilus Ogide Duru’s family compound in Okai, Eziama, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, his ancestral home.

The funeral service and interment will then follow on Friday, December 11, 2026, at the same family compound in Okai, Eziama, Isiala Mbano, where the actor will be laid to rest, with the family describing him as a cherished husband, father, brother, uncle and friend.

The statement read, “A remarkable life, a beautiful legacy, a star that will never stop shining. Though our beloved Chief Francis Duru has taken his final bow, his memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him,” while inviting the public to celebrate his life.

Francis Duru, aged 57/59, died on October 22, 2026, after a brief battle with an undisclosed illness, as announced by his family on October 23, leaving behind a career spanning decades in Nollywood where he was known for his versatility and professionalism.