10/05/2025
Overwhelmed after a loss?� Here’s a compassionate checklist to help guide you through the next steps.
Immediately After Death
Notify close family and friends
Contact a doctor or coroner to pronounce the death (if not in a hospital)
Arrange for transportation of the body to a funeral home or mortuary
Secure the home, pets, and personal property
Gather Important Documents
Will and/or advance directives
Birth certificate, Social Security number
Life insurance policies
Military discharge papers (if applicable)
Contact list for family, friends, and key accounts
Choose Type of Service
Decide on burial or cremation
Choose a funeral home and speak with a funeral director
Set date, time, and location for the service or memorial
Decide on religious or cultural customs to include
Choose speakers, music, readings, or rituals
Service Details
Write an obituary or death announcement
Select flowers, photos, or memorabilia for display
Arrange transportation for family and guests
Choose a casket, urn, or other burial container
Coordinate clergy, celebrant, or officiant
Final Steps
Order certified copies of the death certificate
Notify Social Security, banks, and insurance companies
Begin the process for estate settlement and probate
Send thank-you notes to supporters, guests, and service providers
Seek grief support if needed
We are contactable 24/7 with funeral homes in Penrith & Riverwood, please feel comfortable to give us a call
Penrith (02) 4732 4440
Riverwood (02) 9534 8899
www.reflectionsfunerals.com.au
