EXCLUSIVE

"American Horror Story: Freak Show" creator Ryan Murphy is stepping up to help Ben Woolf 's family after the actor's death.

Sources close to Ben tell TMZ both Murphy and FX have offered to cover portions of the final expenses. Ben's family will be holding a themed memorial in Santa Barbara on March 21st.

We're told the entire 'AHS' cast and crew have been invited -- and guests are being asked to wear red or blue ... Ben's favorite colors.

TMZ broke the story ... Ben died last week from head injuries he suffered when he was hit by a passing car. We're told he will be cremated.

Ben's father Nick says fans can honor Ben by donating to The Ben Woolf Fund -- which will be used to purchase memorial park "BENches" ... or fund his favorite charities like ... Little People Of America and the Story Teller Children's Center.