hestiaIf it was unexpected
Call emergency services
If the death was unexpected, unattended, or there is any safety concern, call 911 or the appropriate emergency number. They will guide you through what happens next.
First steps
What to do when someone dies.
For:Use now
If someone has died, we’re sorry for your loss. This page explains the first practical steps, one at a time. Start with the section that matches your situation, and ask someone you trust to help if you would like support.
If they were in care
Call the care team
If the person was under hospice care or died in a hospital, nursing home, or care facility, ask the nurse or staff what they will take care of and what your family needs to decide next. They have helped many families through this moment.
Who decides
Find out who can sign
One person usually has the legal authority to approve burial or cremation. Written wishes, prearrangements, and state law can affect who that is, so it helps to know before anyone signs paperwork.
If your baby or child has died, we are so sorry. Some things are different, and there is support made for parents. Read our guide for parents, or call 877-969-0010 to talk with a parent who has lived this (The Compassionate Friends).
When you’re ready: the next steps
Look for written wishes, prepaid arrangements, cemetery documents, or a chosen provider.
Contact a funeral home or cremation provider and ask what they need to bring the person into their care. You can speak with more than one before you decide.
Ask for the General Price List and an itemized estimate before you choose any services. You have a right to both.
Gather their legal name, birth date, Social Security number, parents' names, marital status, and any military records.
You don’t have to do this alone
Tell a small circle first. Then let people help: one person for calls with providers, one for documents, others for travel, meals, children or older relatives, photos, the obituary, and faith or community contacts. Hestia gives your family one private place to share this.
See the family spaceWords you have to write: telling people, the obituary, a note to work. Get a first draft, privately in your browser.
This page offers general guidance, not legal, medical, emergency, financial, or religious advice. If there is an emergency, please call emergency services. For Tennessee-specific legal or vital records questions, confirm with the appropriate Tennessee office, county office, provider, or attorney.