When Death Occurs
The overwhelming feelings of despair, disbelief, shock, and numbness caused by the passing of a loved one cannot be conveyed by mere words. Even when death is expected, the pain that loss brings can still be devastating. In truth, no one is completely prepared for the death of someone close to their heart.
During this difficult time, there are decisions to be made immediately, arrangements to be coordinated, and a lot of things to be considered for your loved one’s final farewell. We understand how this may feel overwhelming, especially with the grief you’re feeling over the loss. Please know that we are here to help and support you.
NOTIFY PROPER AUTHORITIES
If your loved one passes away while under the care of a facility — such as a nursing home or a hospital — staff from the facility will contact you and notify the appropriate authorities themselves.
If the death occurred in the workplace or at home, you will need to get in touch with his/her physician or emergency medical personnel, as the cause of death must be identified and indicated in legal documents.
In case, no one was present at the time of death, you will need to contact the police before moving the deceased to another location.CALL THE FUNERAL HOME
You would also be asked if the deceased has made pre-arrangements and whether or not you’d like for him/her to be embalmed. While of course, you can ask any questions you have in your mind during this call, note that once you visit the funeral home, we can discuss the arrangements in greater detail.
MEET THE FUNERAL DIRECTOR/STAFF
On your first meeting with the funeral home, they will discuss the arrangements for your loved one’s burial. You will be shown a list of packages/services so you can decide what suits your family’s preferences and budget. You will be asked whether you’d prefer burial or cremation arrangements and optionally you would select a casket, schedule a time and date for the services, decide on the location of the burial, draft an obituary notice, and arrange for vehicle services, and select pallbearers. At this time you should contact Serenity Memorial Gardens for your cemetery needs.
FILE FOR A DEATH CERTIFICATE
A death certificate is a legal document indicating the cause of death, including other vital statistics pertaining to the deceased, signed by the attending physician. In case your loved one died due to an accident, a coroner or the county medical examiner may prepare the form. If you feel that you need assistance in filing this legal document with the state, the funeral home can help you, however they normally initiate the process. Certified copies of the death certificate can also be purchased at the same time. These certified copies are important when gaining access to bank accounts and safety deposit boxes, claiming for benefits due to the family (like the Veteran’s benefits or insurance claims), and transferring or selling ownership of properties.
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