Facts About Funerals
Legal requirements when a death occurs
1. Contact local law enforcement official if the death was unattended.
2. A determination of death must be made by a coroner, Justice of the Peace, or attending physician.
3. When a death occurs out of state or country it is recommended a funeral director in your local area be contacted who will know the requirements that must be met if a body is to be shipped to another location.
What to do when a death occurs
1. Contact relatives.
2. Locate deceased’s letter of direction, prepaid funeral contract, insurance policy and/or will.
Prior to filing a death certificate, you will need the following information:
1. Full name of deceased
2. Occupation
3. Date of birth
4. Place of birth
5. Social security number
6. Residence address
7. Spouse’s name (maiden name)
8. Father’s name, mother’s maiden name
9. Place of burial or disposition
10. Discharge papers, if veteran
Steps to take to ease the burden of funeral planning prior to death
1. Advise your family and loved ones of your wishes, by recording your wishes.
2. You may prearrange your service with your funeral director.
3. A spouse, next of kin or legal representative generally can make arrangements for disposition of the deceased.
Available methods of disposition
Human remains can be buried, entombed, cremated, or donated for scientific study.