A Loved One Has Passed

Time of Loss - First Steps

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A Loved One Has Passed - The First Steps

The sudden passing of a loved one can feel overwhelming. It can be hard to know where to begin. This list of first steps has been compassionately designed to help you take first steps towards honoring their legacy. If you have experienced the recent loss of a loved one, our compassionate team of staff and funeral directors are available day or night to help you take first steps.

In the Event of a Death at Home or Work

If someone dies outside of a medically supervised location, call the local authorities or 911. Any death that occurs without a doctor or medical personnel present must be reported to the police.

If the deceased was under medical care, notify his/her primary care physician as soon as possible. If you do not know the physician’s name, check medical records, bills, or prescription bottles.

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In the Event of a Death in a Hospital, Nursing Home, or Other Care Facility

When Death Appears Imminent

If a person is failing rapidly and death is imminent, please inform the primary care physician that the designated mortuary will call him or her for certification purposes after death occurs. The acting mortuary will need to obtain the attending doctor’s signature quickly so a burial and transit permit can be secured in a timely manner. If your loved one is an organ donor, additional time will need to be factored into final planning.

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What to do if shipment of the deceased is required

Hillside has an outstanding professional reputation for shipping remains. As a member of the Jewish Funeral Directors of America (JFDA), Hillside is an expert in expedient mortuary shipping throughout the U.S. and world-wide. This widespread network enables us to assist families transporting their loved ones to and from Hillside so you can focus on honoring your loved one’s legacy.

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Information Needed when Death Occurs

Health Care Directive if you are not the legal next of kin.
Vital information related to the deceased, such as social security number, date of birth, family member names, and place of birth.
Secure Veterans Honors for the funeral.
Number of death certificates needed.

In the event a release form is needed after hours, please complete this form so we may take your loved one into our care.

Authority to Release Remains Form