When someone passes away guides
When someone passes away guides
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“The song is ended, but the melody lingers on.”
“The song is ended, but the melody lingers on.”
Irving Berlin
Irving Berlin
Introduction
Introduction
It is perfectly normal to be unsure of what to do when someone dies. Your funeral director will be ready to be by your side from the moment you notify them, to guide you through the key steps after a death, offering you help and support at such a difficult time.
Coping with the passing of a loved one is an intricate and profoundly personal journey unique to the individual and family. In the wake of such a loss, emotions run deep, ranging from profound sorrow to moments of solace in cherished memories. Amidst this emotional whirlwind, practical responsibilities can seem too large and overwhelming as the various parts require attention and careful management.
From arranging funeral rites to handling legal and bureaucratic obligations, the tasks at hand can seem overwhelming. To navigate these turbulent waters with clarity and support, we offer this comprehensive guide, aiming to provide insight, guidance, and practical assistance during this challenging chapter of life.
These articles cover two key aspects of this moment in life.
Who to contact and
List of Companies or services to advise
Location-specific needs - where a person passes away influences some of the procedures and steps required.
Location-specific needs - where a person passes away influences some of the procedures and steps required.
Please note, the following guide can contain information that is graphic or confronting in nature.
To view a simplified guide that does not contain more graphic information, please click here.
When Someone Passes Away Guide - Nursing Homes -compressed.pdfWhen Someone Passes Away Guide - Home-compressed.pdfGuide: How the Deceased is Picked Up and Transported to a Mortuary
Guide: How the Deceased is Picked Up and Transported to a Mortuary
1. Initial Notification/Asking for help: The first step is to notify the appropriate authorities when a death occurs. Depending on the circumstances and location of the death, this could be a hospital or local emergency services.
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2. Verification and Documentation: A medical professional or authorised person will verify the death and complete the necessary documentation (such as the Life Extinct Form). This documentation is crucial for legal and administrative purposes. The life-extinct form is the minimum needed before a body can be relocated to a mortuary.
3. Contacting a Funeral Home: Once the death is verified, the next step is to contact a funeral home of your choice or to use a deceased transport service such as Tender Transfers. The funeral home, or Tender Transfers, will arrange to transport the deceased to their facilities.
4. Transportation Arrangements: The funeral home will send a professional team to pick up the deceased. They will use a specially equipped vehicle designed for respectful and secure body transportation. The team will handle the deceased with care and dignity during this process. A wristband with the deceased's details will be attached to the wrist to ensure their correct identification.
5. Arrival at the Mortuary: Upon arrival at the mortuary, the deceased will be carefully transferred into the care of the mortuary staff. The mortuary staff will prepare the body for services or requests from the family. The body is recorded in the mortuary registry, with details of the deceased and any personal items. A moisture barrier cream is usually used to preserve the skin on the deceased face and hands.
What Happens if Coroners Are Involved
What Happens if Coroners Are Involved
1. Coroner Notification: In some instances, such as unexpected, unattended, or suspicious deaths, the coroner's office must be notified. The coroner will investigate to determine the cause of death.
2. Scene Investigation: The coroner, along with law enforcement, if necessary, will investigate the place of death. This may include examining the body, interviewing witnesses, and gathering relevant information.
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3. Autopsy and Examination: If required, the coroner may order an autopsy to determine the cause of death. A forensic pathologist usually performs this. The autopsy results will be documented and may take several days to weeks.
4. Release of the Body: Once the coroner's investigation is complete and the cause of death is determined, the body will be released to the family or the funeral home chosen by the family. The funeral home will then proceed with the standard transportation and mortuary arrangements. Until the coroners have advised release, the deceased cannot be collected. It is recommended not to finalise the funeral service date/time until the deceased's release is advised. That being said, many families in this situation can opt for a memorial service and can start the arrangements with a funeral home while they wait for the release.
5. Documentation: The coroner will provide the necessary documentation, including the cause of death, which is required for the death certificate. This documentation is crucial for legal, insurance, and administrative purposes.
Other location guides will soon be released.
Next Steps.docxIf you have more questions, do ask them.
If you have more questions, do ask them.
Consider outlining your funeral arrangements before the event so your family and friends can have an even more lasting, positive memory of your life. Choose the theme, mementos, or even the songs you want to be played. You can make it as personal, fun, wacky, or sedate as you choose, reflecting your message and personality.
Discuss your ideas with your chosen Funeral Home to see if they can assist you. You may need to speak with a few people before finding a funeral home service that can create non-traditional ways of celebrating your loved one.
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