At Time of Death

Person placing lilies on a tombstone in a cemetery.

When Death Occurs

The initial steps after a loved one passes will vary depending on the circumstances and location. In any case, healthcare or emergency services will assist in making the necessary arrangements and contacting the funeral home for you.


Once contacted, the funeral home staff  will take care of transporting your loved one.

If your loved one passes away in a hospital, nursing home

The Health Care staff will guide you through the initial transfer process and call the funeral home of your choice for you.

If your loved one passes away with hospice care or home health services

Call the Care Service first. A nurse will come to your home to pronounce the passing of your loved one, then call the funeral home of your choice for you.

In the case of a death at home, not under a health care service provider

Call 911. Emergency services are required to come to the location to pronounce the passing of your loved one. The responding officer will then call the funeral home of your choice for you.

First Contact with the Funeral Home

In most instances, once we're notified of your loved one's passing, we'll call you to check on you, to see if you have any immediate needs or questions. The time of day will guide us whether to reach out to you immediately or wait until later the next morning.  We'll also schedule a time to meet and discuss the details and decisions ahead. This arrangement conference can take place in person at our funeral home, at your home, by phone, and under certain circumstances, contact can be through digital means. Whatever feels most comfortable for you. 


Please note: When death occurs in a hospital, there are often hospital delays in notification reaching us. If you haven't heard from our staff within 12 hours of your loved one's passing, we likely haven't been notified yet. Please don't hesitate to call us directly so we can begin helping you and your family right away.

Important Papers to Locate if Necessary

  • Pre-Planned Arrangements Paperwork
  • Birth Certificates
  • Marriage Certificate  
  • Military Discharge DD214 (Last if possible)
  • Life Insurance Policies
  • Will 
  • Investment Information
  • Retirement Paperwork
  • Bank Account Information
  • Family Trust Information
  • Property Titles or Deeds
  • Cemetery Deeds

Other Important Initial Contacts

  1. Family Members and Friends
  2. Church or Clergy
  3. Clubs or Civic Organizations
  4. Place of Employment


Additional contacts beyond this list will be determined by your circumstances. We will help you determine who else needs to be contacted.