What to Do When Someone Dies in Wichita, KS: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learning what to do when someone dies in Wichita, KS, can feel overwhelming. Whether your loved one has passed at home, in a hospital, or in hospice care, Downing & Lahey Mortuaries & Crematory is available 24 hours a day to walk you through every step. Call our East Wichita chapel at (316) 682-4553 or our West Wichita chapel at (316) 773-4553 at any time.
Immediate Steps When Someone Dies in Wichita, KS
First, notify the appropriate authorities. If your loved one was under hospice care, call the hospice nurse. If the death occurred at home without hospice, call 911. If the death occurred in a hospital or care facility, the staff will guide you. Once the proper authorities have been notified, contact Downing & Lahey. We will arrange transportation and begin helping you with necessary paperwork and decisions.
Within the First 24 Hours
After contacting us, we will transport your loved one to our facility with dignity and care. You do not need to make any immediate decisions about services. When you are ready, we will schedule a time to meet at our East Wichita or West Wichita chapel to discuss your options, including funeral services, cremation, burial, and memorialization.
Gathering Important Documents
It is helpful to begin gathering important documents, including the deceased’s Social Security number, birth certificate, military discharge papers (DD-214) if applicable, insurance policies, and any pre-arrangement paperwork. These documents will be needed during the arrangement process. If you do not have them immediately, our team can help you obtain them.
You Are Not Alone
Downing & Lahey has guided Wichita families through loss for more than 100 years. Our team is owned Tom Morris (fourth generation), Allison Morris Walden and Michael Morris (fifth generation). All directors are Kansas-licensed. We are available day and night, including holidays. Please do not hesitate to call us at any time.