When Death Occurs

Whether a death is sudden or expected, the loss of a loved one is often overwhelming. Even the most basic decisions can seem staggering. The following information provides guidance at the time of a death.

Most deaths occur in hospice, hospitals or nursing care facilities. Routinely, facility staff will notify immediate family members, providing the family was not present at the time of the passing. An opportunity will be given for families to spend time with their loved one prior to our funeral home being notified. Upon notification, our staff will promptly take your loved one into our care and contact next of kin to discuss individual wishes and set up a place and time to make arrangements.

If a death occurs at home or elsewhere, and the person was not under hospice care, immediately call 911 and appropriate help will respond. If the person was under hospice care, contact the hospice representative instead. In each case, the funeral home will be notified after family members have been given the opportunity to spend time with their loved one.


Making Arrangements

Upon the funeral home being notified of a death, a funeral director will contact the family to initially discuss arrangements and set a time to meet. Certain considerations should be given prior to setting a meeting time with the director, such as allowing opportunity for all family members wishing to be present to arrive, and determining the most convenient location, such as the funeral home, home of a family member, or any other location.

Much of the information that the funeral director will gather will be readily known by immediate family members. However, certain information may require further research, such as:

  • Parents names (including mother’s maiden name)
  • Place of birth (city, township or borough)
  • Names of living siblings, their living spouses and towns of residence
  • Names of deceased siblings
  • Education
  • Employment history
  • Social Security Number
  • Veteran Information (Document DD-214)

In addition to the above, the funeral director will also be asking for the following:

  • Clothing
  • Photograph for obituary and/or stationery
  • Eyeglasses
  • Jewelry

The funeral director will use this information to assist in creating a well-written obituary, complete death certificates and plan a unique and meaningful service that celebrates love and celebrates life.

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