What To Do When Death Occurs

When a death occurs in your family, you will be faced with important tasks and decision-making during a very difficult time. You may not know what to do or when to begin making arrangements. Bearing the responsibility can be overwhelming. Remember that you are not alone. Levingston Funeral Home is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to assist you with the details and offer our guidance. We have compiled the following list to help guide you through the steps you will need to take when a death has occurred. If the death occurs outside of our area, call Levingston Funeral Home.  We can handle all details for you no matter where the death occured.

1. After a death has occurred, notify Levingston Funeral Home by calling either of our locations (409) 962-4455 or (409) 722-0253. The following are some questions that we may ask when you call:
   • What is the full name of the deceased?
   • What is the location of the deceased (Hospital, Nursing Facility or Residence)?
   • What is your name, address and telephone number?
   • What is the name, address and phone number of the next-of-kin?
   • Is there a pre-arranged funeral plan? (If yes, what is the plan name or number?)

   We will then set an appointment time for you to come to the funeral home to complete the details of the funeral arrangement. We will ask you to bring in some items and information that will be necessary to complete the arrangement. These items will include:

   • Clothing for the deceased
   • Social security number of the deceased
   • The deceased's birth date and city and state of birth
   • The deceased's parents names, including mother's maiden name
   • Information about the deceased's education
   • Marital status of the deceased
   • Veteran's discharge papers or Claim Number
   • A recent photograph of the deceased
   • Pre-arrangement paperwork (if applicable)
   • Cemetery lot information (if applicable)
   • Designate a charity to which gifts may be made (church, hospice, organization, library)
   • Information on life insurance
   • Call out-of-town friends and relatives
   • Arrange for any hospitality for visiting relatives and friends, if necessary
   • Select pallbearers and give list to the funeral home (you may name as honorary any that are older or have back problems, etc.)