When A Death Occurs

What happens next?

Navigating Loss with Compassion and Care

When a loved one passes away, many decisions need to be made during an emotional time. Here is a guide to help you navigate through the process with compassion and clarity.

Need Assistance?

Contact the Proper Authorities

Hospice Care

If your loved one was under hospice care, the hospice staff will handle the legal pronouncement of death.

Hospital or Nursing Home

The staff at these facilities will ensure the proper declaration is made.

At Home

If your loved one was not under hospice care, call emergency services (911). Explain the situation, and they will assist you.

Begin Making Arrangements

  1. Check for Pre-Planned Arrangements: Your loved one may have already made arrangements. Check for any documented wishes.
  2. Choose a Funeral Home: If there are no pre-planned arrangements, select a funeral home and meet with the funeral director to discuss options.
  3. Decide on Burial or Cremation: If the deceased’s wishes are not known, the family will need to decide between burial and cremation, and the type of service to be held.
  4. Plan the Service: Decisions include the time, date, and location of the service, selecting a casket or urn, drafting an obituary, choosing pallbearers, and deciding on the service specifics such as music, speakers, and officiants.
  5. Veterans: Contact the Veterans Administration to check for any available benefits if the deceased was active or retired military.
Learn More

Documents Funeral Directors May Need

  • Beneficiary designations
  • Life insurance policies
  • Military discharge papers (form DD 214)
  • Social Security number

Taking Care of Personal Property

  • Secure your loved one’s home and vehicle.
  • Arrange care for any pets.
  • Forward mail to a family member to handle the deceased’s estate.
  • Inform the deceased’s employer about the death.
  • Cancel any upcoming appointments your loved one had.
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