When A Death Occurs

When a death occurs, the order in which things need to be done often depends on where the death occurred. But, one thing should always be remembered: your heightened emotional state upon the death of a loved one. That's why we suggest that you ask a friend for help - someone who is more able to think clearly, and give you the support you need.

At Home or at Work

At Home or at Work

When a death occurs at home or in the workplace, a family member or co-worker should contact emergency personnel and the person's physician if he or she was under a doctor's care. If the death occurs at home with family or friends present, and the person is under a physician's care, the family will want to call us directly.

However, if the death occurs in a residence and no one is there at the time of death, the coroner will need to be notified and respond to the residence before the deceased is removed from their home.

If in any case you are not sure of who to notify or what to do, you may call (859) 654-3306, and we'll assist you in notifying the proper agencies.

While Under Supervised Care

While Under Supervised Care

When a death occurs in a care facility, such as a hospital or nursing home, the professional staff will notify you and the necessary authorities. If the name of the funeral home has been left with them, the institution will notify the funeral home at the time of the death. The funeral director will contact you immediately following their notification to help you proceed. (However, we suggest you contact the funeral home immediately, so you've got the reassurance you need that all is taken care of properly.)

If a loved one was in the care of a hospice program, a hospice representative will give family members instructions and procedures to follow. The coroner/medical examiner will be notified by hospice. Following their release the hospice will contact the funeral home. It is always a good idea for the family to contact us immediately so that we will be aware of the pending call from hospice.

What to Expect When You Arrive at the Funeral Home

What to Expect When You Arrive at the Funeral Home

One of the first things the funeral arranger will do is to provide you with our general price list. He or she will then guide you through the entire arrangement process, explaining how you can create a memorable personal celebration of your loved one's life. This is not a one-way conversation; we want to hear your ideas and desires, and use them as the foundation for the arrangement process.  Our funeral arrangers will assist you in planning a loving tribute that captures the spirit of the person whose life you wish to honor. 

The following checklist will help you remember what information about the decedent and items will be needed when meeting with a funeral arranger.

- Full legal name- Home address

- Social Security number

- Date of birth

- Place of birth

- Father's name

- Mother's maiden name

- Veteran's discharge papers (DD-214)

- Photograph for Obituary 

- Highest education

- Occupation

- Place of burial (if applicable)

- Clothing to be buried in

- Clergy name and phone number

- Survivors (name and relationship)

- Insurance policies (if applicable)

A staff member of Woodhead Funeral Homes, Memorials & Cremation Service will be honored to explain all of the options available to you.