AVBOB | File Of Life

If a loved one passes away, a very confusing time can follow for those who are left behind – a time during which one doesn’t know what to do first. The first steps depend on the circumstances under which or place where the person has died, namely at home, in a hospital, in a public place or overseas. 1. Steps to follow after a person has died: 1.1 Type of death 1.1.1 Natural causes a. Contact the deceased’s GP (if during office hours). b. Contact the deceased’s funeral director. c. Contact the deceased’s pastor/minister. d. Have the following information available:  ID document/ID number of deceased (if available)  ID document of person arranging the funeral  Details of the GP who treated the deceased recently  Make a decision: funeral/cremation  Date and time of memorial service  Name of cemetery  Details of the pastor/minister (name and tel no)  Name and address of church/chapel  List of songs to be sung in church (usually two songs)  List of people who will act as bearers (usually six bearers)  Special requests, e.g. photos, CDs, DVDs, flowers, clothing, viewing, etc. 1.1.2 Unnatural causes a. Contact the police and get the name and contact details of the investigating officer. b. Contact the funeral director. c. Identification has to take place at the Forensic Pathology Division of the Department of Health. d. A post-mortem/inquest is performed by the pathologist. e. Obtain the comprehensive post-mortem report. f. Have the following information available:  ID document/ID number of the deceased (if available)  ID document of person arranging the funeral  Details of the GP who treated the deceased recently  Make a decision: funeral/cremation  Date and time of memorial service  Name of cemetery  Details of the pastor/minister (name and tel no)  Name and address of church/chapel  List of songs to be sung in church (usually two songs)  List of people who will act as bearers (usually six bearers)  Special requests, e.g. photos, CDs, DVDs, flowers, clothing, viewing, etc. B. DEATH