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What to Do

What to Do

Planning a funeral can be overwhelming, but you are not alone in this. We’re here to support you throughout this journey and make this process one of love, healing, and life celebration. Below is some information to help you get started, but you can contact us at any time if you need help.

Many people are unsure what steps to take when a death occurs. It is important that you understand what can be done. We, at Ahern Funeral Home, want to make sure that you have the necessary information required to make these important decisions about funeral arrangements. The necessary steps usually depend on the location and circumstances.

Unanticipated death at home or elsewhere

In these situations you should contact 911. Police and emergency medical personnel will then determine the appropriate steps to take. Generally, the authorities can release the remains directly to the Ahern Funeral Home, so that preparations may begin. In some situations where the cause of death may not yet be known, the remains may need to be taken to the medical examiner’s office.

Anticipated death at home

Often, when someone is faced with a terminal illness, the family will decide to make arrangements in advance – saving them the time and emotional decisions needed at the time of death. Many people with terminal illness are more comfortable at home under the care of hospice in the final stages of their illness. In this situation, you should inform hospice that you have chosen Ahern Funeral Home. Hospice will then supervise the necessary legal requirements.

If death occurs in an institution

Should the death occur at a hospital or care home (nursing/convalescent), the medical staff should handle all necessary legal steps. You simply need to inform the staff that the Ahern Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Death out-of-state

If death occurs out of state, you should call the Ahern Funeral Home at (860) 673-2601 or (860) 522-1155. We can then coordinate the transfer with a local funeral director at the place of death. If you would like further information, please feel free to call us at (860) 673-2601 or (860) 522-1155, or simply email us at ahernfh@aol.com. We are here to assist your needs and answer any questions you might have

What to Expect When We Meet

When you meet with a member of our staff to discuss your arrangements, we'll first provide you with a general price list to give you a basic idea of what our services cost.

We'll then ask you about your loved one to gain an understanding of the person the services will honor. Use this time to communicate your ideas and preferences and share your loved one's life story.

This process may include:

  • Gathering information necessary to complete the death certificate
  • Scheduling the services and events (including the location, date, and time)
  • Selecting a casket, urn, or other products you may need
  • Drafting an obituary
  • Arranging necessary transportation

 

We'd like to make this process as smooth and stress-free for you as we can, so remember to bring the following information about your loved one with you as well:

  • Full legal name and home address
  • Social security number
  • Date of birth
  • Place of birth
  • Father's name
  • Mother's maiden name
  • Veteran's discharge papers (DD-214), if applicable
  • Highest education
  • Occupation
  • Information about the burial location if applicable
  • Clergy name and phone number if applicable
  • Names and relationships of survivors

 

Please also bring a recent photograph and any clothing you'd like us to use when dressing them for the service.

 

 

Ahern Funeral Home, Inc - Hartford
Phone: (860) 522-1155
180 Farmington Ave., Hartford, CT 06105

Ahern Funeral Home, Inc - Unionville
Phone: (860) 673-2601
111 Main St., Unionville, CT 06085

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