Who do I contact when a death occurs?

We are available 24 hours a day at 831-423-5721

One of the most common concerns among people we meet at Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel is who to call when a loved one dies. The answer can vary depending upon the circumstances surrounding the nature of the death, but usually falls into one of two categories.

For example, when a person dies after a prolonged illness and has been under the regular care of a licensed physician, regardless if the person dies at; home, hospital or convalescent hospital, the funeral home can be called directly and can respond to take custody of the deceased. The funeral director and staff will then begin the process of completing and filing a death certificate within the county of death. The family can meet with an arrangement counselor to discuss their preferences and finalize the arrangements.

The other situation is when a person dies with no previous illness or as the result of an accident or other form of unexpected death. In those circumstances it is necessary to contact the county coroner. In most cases the coroner’s office will dispatch an official to take custody of the deceased and begin an inquiry into the cause of death. Once the coroner has concluded the inquiry, the family may select a funeral home to assist them. The funeral director will then arrange for the release and transportation of the deceased, the completion of the death certificate and coordination of the family’s preferences.

Even though these regulations may seem simple enough, the complexities can be daunting, when dealing with the stress and emotions of a loved one’s death. Your funeral director and the funeral home staff are trained to know just what to do and how to navigate through all of the complexities. Should you have questions or need our help, the dedicated staff at Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel is here to assist you, when you need us.