After a death has occurred, you might find yourself asking, ‘Now what?’ Basically, there are three types of death you may be faced to deal with: expected, unexpected, and trauma.

In the case of an expected death, which usually happens in a hospital, care home, or hospice, you will have a caregiver to help you connect with the right people. These caregivers, who are often nurses or social workers, will directly contact both the preferred funeral director and doctor on your behalf.

In the case of an unexpected death, one that is sudden, you will need to first notify the local police department, who will then investigate the death. Depending on your residence, the person who responds could be a city police officer or a sheriff’s deputy. Often people are surprised by the questions asked by the official, but it is important to remember they are filling out a standard report and have specific questions that need to be answered.

For trauma deaths, typically you will be notified by local police and will most likely have lots of questions for them. In many cases the answers to your questions will take a long period of time to develop and you will have to find patience.

No matter what the circumstance or type of death, know that your local funeral home will respond at all times of the day and night. Your funeral director is a valuable resource. As professionals, they can provide you answers in addition to arrangement options in accordance to your loved one’s wishes.  

Remember, you always have a choice in funeral establishments and can change at any time, if you so choose. Undoubtedly, it is your right to be able to ask any question and expect to get clear and honest answers from any funeral director.