When someone you love dies, the first few hours can feel unreal.
There may be people to call, questions you never expected to be asking and practical things that suddenly seem very important at a time when thinking clearly can feel difficult.
If you are unsure what to do first, that is completely understandable.
You do not need to organise the entire funeral straight away.
For now, it is enough to take the next step.
What Should I Do First?
What happens first depends on where and how your loved one died.
If they die at home following a known illness, Glenelg Funerals advises that the family doctor should be contacted. If the death is unexpected, the Police should be contacted so the appropriate process can begin.
If your loved one dies in a hospital or nursing home, staff will usually guide the first steps before the funeral director becomes involved.
You do not need to remember every detail in the moment.
If you are uncertain, ask for help.
When Should We Call the Funeral Director?
Once the necessary medical or official steps are underway, you can contact your chosen funeral director.
Glenelg Funerals states that its phones are answered 24 hours a day, so families can reach out when they need support.
That first call does not mean you need to make every decision.
It simply begins the process of bringing your loved one into care and gives you someone to guide you through what comes next.
What Happens if Someone Dies at Home?
If the death was expected and related to a known illness, contact the person’s doctor.
Once the appropriate medical requirements have been completed, your funeral director can be contacted.
If the death was sudden or unexpected, the Police should be contacted so the correct procedures can be followed.
At a time like this, having someone explain each step can make an unfamiliar situation feel a little less overwhelming.
Do We Need to Decide Between Burial and Cremation Straight Away?
No.
This is an important decision, but it does not need to be rushed simply because everything else feels urgent.
Sometimes your loved one has already made their wishes known.
Sometimes family members have discussed it before.
And sometimes nobody knows.
If that is your situation, your funeral director can explain the available options and give your family time to consider what feels right.
Glenelg Funerals provides both burial and cremation services throughout metropolitan Adelaide.
What Information Will We Need?
During the arrangement process, your funeral director will need some personal details about your loved one.
Glenelg Funerals uses information supplied by the family to register the death with Births, Deaths and Marriages.
Do not worry if you do not have every answer immediately.
You can work through the information together.
What Can Wait Until Tomorrow?
Quite a lot.
You do not need to have chosen every song.
You do not need the eulogy written.
You do not need every photograph selected.
You do not need the entire funeral planned.
Some decisions can be made gradually, with time for family conversations and reflection.
For the first day, it may be enough simply to know your loved one is being cared for and that someone is there to help guide you.
Funeral Directors Supporting Families Across Adelaide
Glenelg Funerals is based in Somerton Park and supports families throughout metropolitan Adelaide, including Glenelg, Brighton, Marion, Plympton, Morphett Vale and Hallett Cove.
When someone dies, you are not expected to suddenly know how funerals work.
You do not need all the answers.
You only need to begin.
One conversation can help make the next step feel clearer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing to do when someone dies at home?
If the person dies at home from a known illness, contact their doctor. If the death is unexpected, contact the Police.
When should I contact a funeral director?
Once the necessary medical or official steps are underway or complete, you can contact your chosen funeral director.
Can I call Glenelg Funerals after hours?
Yes. Glenelg Funerals states that its phones are answered 24 hours a day.
Do we have to decide everything on the first day?
No. Many details can be considered gradually.
Do we need to choose burial or cremation immediately?
No. Your funeral director can explain both options and give you time to consider them.
Who registers the death?
Glenelg Funerals states that it registers the death with Births, Deaths and Marriages using information supplied by the family.
Does Glenelg Funerals service areas outside Glenelg?
Yes. Glenelg Funerals supports families across metropolitan Adelaide, including Somerton Park, Brighton, Marion, Plympton, Morphett Vale and Hallett Cove.
What if we feel overwhelmed?
That is very common. Your funeral director can help you work through the practical decisions one step at a time.
