(215) 672-6262

First Steps
After a Loss

Losing a loved one is never easy. Knowing the first steps to take can help reduce uncertainty in a difficult time. The process may vary depending on where the passing occurs — at home, in a care facility, or away from home. Acting quickly and following the right steps ensures your loved one is cared for with dignity. Our team at Plunkett McFillin is here to guide you through each step with compassion. We honor cultural and religious customs, respect personal wishes, and listen when you need to talk. Our goal is to ease the burden so you can focus on honoring your loved one’s life.

What to Do When a Loved One Passes at Home

If the passing was unexpected, call local authorities or emergency services right away. Share any advance directives or Do Not Resuscitate orders with the responders. Medical professionals will confirm the death and involve the coroner or medical examiner when required.

If your loved one was under hospice or end-of-life care, contact the hospice agency first. Their team will guide you through the next steps. Then call us at (215) 672-6262 so we arrange transportation with care. Until help arrives, please do not move your loved one or change anything in the home.

Guidance After a Passing in a Hospital or Care Facility

When a loved one passes in a hospital, nursing home, or care facility, the staff will notify the attending physician and help complete the required paperwork. Once those steps are handled, please call Plunkett McFillin so we help arrange transportation and guide your family through what comes next.

If funeral prearrangements are already in place, share those details with the facility staff. This helps honor your loved one’s wishes with care from the very beginning.

First StepsAfter a Loss

What to Do When a Loved One Passes at Home

Guidance After a Passing in a Hospital or Care Facility

First Steps
After a Loss