What To Do When a Loved One Dies at Home
Even when it’s expected, nothing can truly prepare us for the death of a loved one. Those at the end of a long illness may feel most comfortable at home in their final days, surrounded by friends and family members, but the loss can still feel overwhelming for those left behind. When a death is unexpected, that feeling of loss can be even more intense.
No matter the circumstances of the loss, you do not need to face those first hours alone. Pipkin Braswell is available, day and night, to help you through the next steps. Below are some guidelines for what to do in the minutes, hours, and days after a loss, but you can also call us any time for help at
303.996.0869
In the First Minutes
The first thing to do is to notify the proper authorities. If your loved one was under hospice care, begin by calling their hospice doctor or care coordinator. Their staff can then notify additional authorities on your behalf.
In Colorado, a qualified medical professional must make the official pronouncement of death. This can be done by a hospice doctor, your loved one’s physician, or the coroner’s office. Some counties also require families to notify law enforcement.
If the death was unexpected, you should call 911 immediately, after which police and an ambulance will be sent to your home. They will let you know what to do next.
In the First Hours
After the proper authorities have been notified, you may spend some time with the deceased, if you would like to. Colorado’s laws state that the body of the deceased must be refrigerated or embalmed within 24 hours of death. This allows you time to hold your loved one’s hand, pray, and begin saying goodbye before contacting the funeral home.
This is also an appropriate time to contact close family and friends to notify them of your loved one’s passing. They can also take some of the burden of sharing the news with others.
It’s important to think of your own wellbeing during this time, as well. Take a moment to rest when you need to and lean on the people around you, whether it’s family, a close friend, or a leader of your church. You’ll need their support for the days ahead.
In the First Days
Your loved one may have had a funeral preplan in place, or may have mentioned their preferred funeral home. If not, you’ll need to decide on a funeral home and contact them.
At Pipkin Braswell, the funeral director will come to the home, no matter what time of day or night you need us. Once we arrive, we will cover the deceased with a sheet or blanket, then gently and discreetly carry them to the transport vehicle on a gurney. Your loved one will be taken to the funeral home where they will safely remain in our care until the final arrangements.
After we have taken your loved one into our care, it’s time to make final arrangements. First, we’ll help you obtain as many copies of the death certificate as you’ll need for the organizations that require one, such as credit card companies and the Social Security Administration.
We’ll also help you to understand your options for your loved one’s burial or cremation and the details of their funeral service. Together we can help you plan personalized and distinguished services that honor their unique life.
We Exist for Our Community
We have served Denver’s African American community for more than 40 years. Your loved one’s life deserves to be celebrated, and their story told by the people who love and care for them.
If you have questions, would like to learn more about our signature services, or need immediate assistance, we’re here for you whenever you need us. Reach out at
303.996.0869.
