When Death Occurs
Immediately following the death of a loved one, many decisions need to be made. During this time, emotions are often heightened, so it is wise to seek help in making all the necessary arrangements. The funeral home’s staff is also ready to assist you and your family in making the best possible decisions. This information can help guide you through the process.
Contact The Proper Authorities
Before any arrangements and decisions can be made, a legal pronouncement of death must be declared. If your loved one dies inside of a medical or nursing facility like a hospital or nursing home, the staff will handle getting this declaration made. If your loved one dies at home, you need to immediately contact the local emergency officials to come and take them to a hospital where they can be legally declared dead. Family members who die under hospice care can be declared dead by the hospice staff. This legal declaration must be made before the family can proceed with making any funeral arrangements or handling any legal affairs.
Begin To Make Arrangements
Before any arrangements and decisions can be made, a legal pronouncement of death must be declared. If your loved one dies in a medical or nursing facility, such as a hospital or nursing home, the staff will handle this declaration. If your loved one dies at home, you need to immediately contact local emergency officials to take them to a hospital where they can be legally declared dead. Family members who die under hospice care can be declared dead by the hospice staff. This legal declaration must be made before the family can proceed with any funeral arrangements or handle any legal affairs.
Information Funeral Directors May Need
Once you have met the funeral director, they will advise you on any information or paperwork they need for the death certificate or to proceed with making final arrangements
Information Required:
- Full name and address
- Marital status
- Race/Ethnicity
- Date and city of birth
- Highest level of education
- Father’s name, mother’s maiden name
- Name of spouse
- Occupation and employer
Documents Funeral Directors May Need
Funeral directors will need important documents to complete any legal paperwork. These documents include:
- Account statements
- Beneficiary designations
- Life insurance policies
- Military discharge papers (form DD 214)
- Social Security number
Taking Care Of Personal Property
Following the death of your loved one, there are several things you need to attend to regarding their personal life. First, secure your loved one’s property by ensuring their home and vehicle are properly locked. If they had a pet, make arrangements for its care with family or friends. Forward any mail to a family member who will handle the deceased’s estate, as piled-up mail at a vacant home can alert potential intruders that the home is empty. Inform the deceased’s employer about their death. Additionally, cancel any upcoming appointments your loved one had scheduled by notifying the relevant contacts about their passing.
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