HELPING YOU ALONG
Death Away From Home
Death away from home is very unexpected, but it does happen. The process of handling funeral arrangements is already complicated and stressful, but knowing what to do when this happens away from home can help family members responsible for making any arrangements.
What to Do When a Death Occurs Away from Home
At Simplicity Burial and Oklahoma Cremation Centers in Tulsa, we understand that a death away from home is unexpected and adds to an already difficult time. Knowing the steps to take can ease the stress for family members handling arrangements.
Step 1: Contact Your Local Funeral Director
Your first step should be to reach out to your local funeral director at Simplicity Burial or Oklahoma Cremation Centers. Our team can guide you through the process and provide advice tailored to your specific situation.
Death inside the United States
If the death occurs within the United States but away from the home state or town, the family has options for transporting the deceased. This process typically involves two funeral homes:
- At the Place of Death: The first funeral home will handle the collection and preparation of the body for transport.
- At Home: The second funeral home will receive the body and facilitate any services the family wishes to hold.
Death outside the United States
When a death occurs abroad, the process can be more complex. Families have several options:
- Repatriation of the Body: The body can be prepared and shipped to the United States following the laws and customs of the country where the death occurred. While embalming is less common in many countries, other methods of preparation are available.
- Local Burial or Cremation: Families may choose to bury their loved one in the country where the death occurred or opt for cremation. Cremated remains can be shipped back to the United States via mail or air services.
