wHERE TO BEGIN
We’re Here to Help You Take the First Step — with Care, Clarity, and Compassion
Losing someone you love is never easy, and the hours and days that follow can feel overwhelming. But you are not alone. At Sunset Memorial Oaks, we’re here to walk beside you — gently guiding you through the next steps and helping you turn this time into one of remembrance, healing, and love.
Below is an overview of what to expect, what you may need, and how we can support you at every stage.
Your First Steps After A Loss
Within Hours of the Passing
Ensure Safety & Call Us
Call 911 or your hospice nurse for official pronouncement.
We answer 24/7 — never an answering service.
We arrange respectful transport and guide you from minute one.
Tell close family and friends (ask someone to help).
What happens after the first call
- If the death occurred at home and was unexpected, dial 911 so EMS can pronounce the death.
- If your loved one was under hospice or physician care, notify the hospice nurse or doctor instead.
- In hospitals, nursing homes, or other facilities, staff handle pronouncement and can contact us on your behalf.
After authorities are notified, call Sunset Memorial Oaks any time (24/7).
A licensed director—never an answering service—will:
- Arrange respectful transport of your loved one into our care.
- Explain every next step so you’re never guessing what to do.
- Give you space to breathe; there’s no rush to make big decisions immediately.
Within The First Few Days
Notify & Begin Planning
Review any pre-arrangements or wishes.
Start thinking: burial vs. cremation, service style, preferred location.
What should I do in the first few days?
- Reach out to close family and friends; ask someone you trust to help make calls or social posts.
- Locate any pre-arranged plans or written wishes—these can guide many choices.
Start thinking about (but don’t feel pressured to decide right away):
- Burial or cremation?
- What type of gathering? (traditional funeral, memorial, celebration of life, graveside)
- Final resting place? (cemetery plot, mausoleum, keeping or scattering of ashes)
- Religious, military, or cultural elements you’d like included.
We’ll walk you through each question with patience, clear pricing, and practical examples—so the service is both meaningful and manageable.
Your Planning Meeting – What to expect and bring
Design a Meaningful Tribute
Bring key documents (SSN, DD-214, photos).
We’ll file the death certificate, draft the obituary, schedule clergy & venues, and answer every question.
Together we’ll create a farewell that reflects your loved one’s life.
What happens at my planning meeting?
During your arrangement conference (in person or virtual) we will:
- Review our General Price List and answer cost questions up front.
- File the death certificate.
- Select a casket, urn, or other merchandise if needed.
- Draft and place an obituary.
- Coordinate clergy, celebrants, musicians, pallbearers, and veteran honors.
- Schedule service locations, dates, and transportation.
Please bring, if available:
- Social Security number & birth details
- DD-214 (veterans), insurance or burial policy documents
- Recent photo & preferred clothing for preparation
- Names and relationships of surviving family members
Our goal is to create a tribute that reflects your loved one’s personality, beliefs, and legacy—while making the process as easy as possible for you.
FAQ
How soon do I need to decide on services?
You don’t have to choose everything right away. After the first call, we’ll secure your loved one into our care and schedule a planning meeting within the next 24-48 hours—so you have time to breathe and gather family input.
What paperwork should I bring to our meeting?
Social Security number, birth & marriage certificates, DD-214 (for veteran honors), and any pre-arrangement documents. If you can’t find something, let us know—we can often obtain copies for you.
Is embalming required?
Embalming is not legally required for every situation. It may be necessary for public viewing or if there will be an extended delay before the service. We’ll explain your options so you can decide what’s right for your family.
Can we hold a service if we choose cremation?
Absolutely. Many families have a traditional funeral or celebration of life before or after cremation. Our team can help design a unique tribute whether burial or cremation is chosen.
What are the average costs?
Because every service is tailored, costs vary. During your arrangement conference we provide a detailed, item-by-item estimate—no surprises.
Do you offer grief support after the funeral?
Yes. We provide free online grief resources, monthly check-in emails, and can connect you with local counselors or support groups. Healing continues long after the service, and we’re here for the journey.
