When You Lose a Loved One
The loss of a loved one is overwhelming, and in the hours and days following their death, there are many decisions that need to be made. During this time, emotions may feel intense, and it can be comforting to ask for help. The staff at Azle & Lake Worth Funeral Home & Cemetery are here to guide you and your family, offering support and expertise to help you make decisions with confidence. This information can serve as a helpful guide through the process.
Contact The Proper Authorities
Before any arrangements can be made, a legal pronouncement of death must occur:
- In a hospital or nursing facility: Staff will handle the declaration of death.
- At home: Contact local emergency officials immediately, so the remains can be transported to a hospital for official documentation.
- Under hospice care: Hospice staff can legally declare the death.
This official declaration must be completed before you can move forward with funeral arrangements or other legal matters.
Begin To Make Arrangements
Once your loved one has been declared deceased, your family can begin planning a tribute. If your loved one preplanned their funeral, start by reviewing those wishes. If no prior arrangements exist, you will first choose a funeral home and meet with a funeral director to discuss your options.
If final wishes were not documented, your family will need to decide:
- Burial or cremation.
- Type of service, including time, date and location.
- Casket or urn.
- Obituary notice.
- Pallbearers and officiants.
- Music and speakers.
For veterans, it’s important to contact the Department of Veterans Affairs to learn about possible benefits or military honors.
Information Funeral Directors May Need
When meeting with the funeral director, they will guide you on the information and paperwork needed for the death certificate and final arrangements.
Personal Information Often Required:
- Full name and address.
- Marital status.
- Race/ethnicity.
- Date and place of birth.
- Parents’ names (including mother’s maiden name).
- Spouse’s name.
- Occupation and employer.
- Highest level of education.
Documents Funeral Directors May Need:
- Account statements.
- Beneficiary designations.
- Life insurance policies.
- Military discharge papers (DD-214).
- Social Security number.
Taking Care Of Personal Property
After a loved one dies, it’s important to secure their property and personal matters:
- Ensure their home and vehicles are secure.
- Arrange care for any pets with family or friends.
- Forward mail to a trusted family member to manage the estate; accumulated mail can signal that a home is empty.
- Notify the deceased’s employer of their death.
- Cancel or reschedule upcoming appointments and commitments.
Taking these steps helps protect your loved one’s property, gives your family clarity and allows you to focus on honoring their life