When a Death Occurs
When someone you love passes away, the hours that follow can feel overwhelming and disorienting, even when the loss was expected. There is no need to have every answer right away. This guide walks you through the practical first steps, and remember that the team at Jensen Funeral Home is available around the clock to take the weight of these details off your shoulders. Whatever time of day or night, your first call can always be to us.
The First Hours
If a death occurs at home or somewhere other than a care facility, and your loved one was not under hospice care, call 911 first. If they were under hospice or passed in a hospital or nursing home, the staff will guide you and notify the proper authorities. Once your loved one has been pronounced, you can call us at any hour. We will come to bring them into our care and explain exactly what happens next, one step at a time.
Gathering Important Information
In the days ahead, it helps to gather a few key details for the arrangements and the death certificate: your loved one's full legal name, date and place of birth, Social Security number, and information about their parents and military service if applicable. Do not worry about assembling everything perfectly. We will let you know what is needed and help you fill in the gaps. Bringing a recent photo and any pre-arrangement paperwork is also helpful.
Leaning on Those Around You
You do not have to carry these first days alone. Lean on family, friends, and your faith community, and let them help with meals, phone calls, and errands. When you are ready, we will sit down with you to plan a service that honors your loved one, and we will handle the coordination, paperwork, and details so you can focus on grieving and being present with the people who matter most.
