Death, by nature, can be unpredictable. Sometimes, we cannot prepare for when or where it occurs.
Having to process the passing of a loved one is never easy, but when a death occurs away from home, it can be even more confusing and stressful for the loved ones left behind.
On top of shock and grief, family members become tasked with coordinating how to return their loved one home and making funeral arrangements. Here is a general overview of what to expect when a death occurs away from home.
Whom should you contact when a death occurs Far away from home?
The first thing you will need to do is contact the local authorities where the death occurred. They will be able to help you with the initial steps and paperwork.
Next, if the decedent made pre-planned arrangements or you have previous experience with us, connect with our funeral directors to advise our team of the situation.
Where will the Deceased go during planning?
We have reciprocal agreements with funeral homes around the United States. We only entrust the care of your loved one to a funeral home that will represent Star of David in a dignified, caring, and professional manner.
Upon direction from us, the funeral directors will transfer the deceased from the place of death to their funeral home. They will then file all necessary paperwork to secure the official transfer permit. Once this has occurred, they will place the deceased in an airline-approved transfer case and then transport your loved one to the nearest airport.
The US Bureau of Consular Affairs will assist family members if the death occurs abroad. This assistance includes obtaining a death certificate and providing information about how to make arrangements to return the remains and the deceased’s personal effects to the United States.
How will the deceased get to where they need to be?
The body will require transportation to where the funeral or burial will occur. There are a few different options to carry this out. You can transport via a commercial airline or use a specialized shipping company. The cost and time involved will vary depending on which option you choose.
Our representative will arrange to have the deceased placed on a flight based on your selection and flown to a New York airport. A Star of David Memorial Chapels team member will be awaiting the flight’s arrival and will transfer the deceased to our funeral home.
What happens upon arrival at the designated location?
Once the deceased arrives, all preparations and arrangements regarding the funeral service move forward.
We are here to help!
If you have any questions or concerns should this occur, do not hesitate to reach out for help. At Star of David Memorial Chapels on Long Island, New York, we are here to guide you through this difficult time and will make sure everything is taken care of for you. Please get in touch with us at 631-454-9600.