Transfer of a Loved One
When a call is placed to the funeral home to notify them of the death, they will arrange a time to transfer the care of your loved one from the place of death to the funeral home. Take the time you need with your loved one; do not feel you need to arrange for immediate transfer.
When it’s time for the transfer, you can generally expect two funeral professionals to arrive. They may provide you with a folder of information about what to expect next with regard to making arrangements. Jewelry, glasses, and watches will be removed and your loved one will be placed on a funeral cot. Your loved one will then be covered with a cloth and gently secured in the zippered bag. If desired, you can ask to do the final draping of your loved one before the funeral professionals take them into their care. It is your choice if you want to be present for the transfer; however, some people find it comforting.
Your loved one will then be transferred to the funeral home for final preparation of the body based on your loved one’s final wishes.
*Often the hospice nurse or hospital staff will call a death in; it’s not necessarily the family making the call.