The hours after a death can feel disorienting. You do not need to make every funeral decision immediately. The first priority is making sure the death is properly pronounced and that the right professionals are notified.
If the death was unexpected
Call 911. Emergency personnel and the appropriate authorities will determine the next steps. Do not move the person or disturb the surrounding area unless emergency personnel instruct you to do so.
If the death was expected
If hospice was involved, call the hospice nurse using the number provided in the care plan. For a death in a hospital, nursing facility, or other care setting, the staff will generally begin the required notification and release process.
Call the funeral home
Once the proper medical or legal authority permits a transfer, call Horizon Funeral Home at 347-588-5555. Our care team is available around the clock. We will ask for the location, the name of the person who died, your contact information, and whether any religious, cultural, or timing requirements need immediate attention.
Gather the information you already have
Do not delay calling because paperwork is incomplete. When you are able, begin locating the following:
- Government-issued identification and Social Security information
- Parents’ names, including a mother’s name before marriage
- Marriage, military, cemetery, or prearrangement documents, if applicable
- Clothing and a recent photograph
- Contact information for clergy, a cemetery, or a receiving funeral home
Our vital-statistics worksheet can help organize information used during the arrangement process.
Before making financial commitments
Ask for written price information and review the services and merchandise being selected. Horizon will explain the available options, required items, optional items, cash-advance charges, and the timing of payment before authorization.
If you need immediate assistance, use the immediate-need form or call us directly.