13/03/2026
🤍 What To Do When Someone You Love Passes Away
In the first moments after losing someone you love, emotions run high and decisions can feel overwhelming.
This is why experienced funeral professionals, like the team at Lady Anne Funerals, help families gently navigate the practical steps that follow.
If someone passes away in NSW, here are a few of the first things that usually need to happen:
1. Confirm the death
If the death occurs in a hospital or aged care facility, staff will usually manage the documentation and notify the family immediately.
If it happens at home, a registered nurse can do a verification of death (VOD) or their general practitioner will issue the medical certificate cause of death. If neither of these professionals are available, please call NSW Ambulance.
2. Contact a funeral director
Lady Anne Funerals – 1300 74 00 74 (available 24/7)
A funeral director can assist with bringing your loved one into care, registering the death, and guiding the family through funeral or memorial arrangements. Lady Anne Funerals also has its own on-site mortuary in Gladesville, is part of the NFDA (National Funeral Directors Association) and is privately owned.
3. Notify close family and friends
In the first hours, many families choose to inform only immediate loved ones, with wider notifications shared once arrangements have been made.
4. Begin thinking about the funeral
Every farewell is different. Some families prefer a traditional service, while others choose a personalised celebration of life with meaningful music, readings, and tributes and others may prefer a NSNA (no service or attendance).
5. Allow time to grieve
Grief is deeply personal. A thoughtful funeral service can give family and friends the opportunity to gather, share memories, and begin the healing process together.
Across Sydney, many families trust Lady Anne Funerals to guide them through these moments with warmth, understanding, and care. 🤍 www.laf.com.au