What Happens When a Funeral Home Comes to the House?

What Happens When a Funeral Home Comes to the House to Pick Up Your Loved One? (What to Expect)

February 24, 2026

This is one of the biggest unknowns for families. Many people imagine something clinical or frightening because of what they’ve seen online or in movies. In real life, a professional transfer is usually quiet, discreet, and respectful, and it’s done with your comfort in mind.

When the funeral director arrives, we’ll introduce ourselves and explain what will happen before we do anything. Families can choose how involved they want to be in this moment. Some people stay nearby. Others step into another room. Both are completely normal.

What usually happens step-by-step

We confirm identity and answer questions
We ask if you’d like a moment before we begin
We carefully and respectfully bring your loved one into our care
We keep the process discreet and calm
We explain next steps, but only as much as you want to discuss

What the transfer actually looks like

Many families worry this moment will feel clinical or upsetting because of what they’ve seen on television. In reality, it is usually much quieter and gentler than people expect.

We bring a wheeled cot (similar to a hospital bed) into the home. Your loved one is carefully placed onto a clean sheet with a pillow positioned under their head, and they are respectfully covered before leaving the home. The process is slow and deliberate, and we explain what we are doing as we go.

We do not rush, and we do not treat the home like a scene from a movie. There are no flashing lights, sirens, or activity meant to draw attention. Our goal is to keep the environment peaceful and to allow the family dignity and privacy.

Families often tell us afterward that this was not nearly as difficult as they feared.

What families often find reassuring

You won’t be expected to make big decisions during the transfer
You can ask for time or privacy
The process is handled with dignity and care

Things to note

If you have special requests (a prayer, a family member present), tell us—we will do our best to honor them.
If you feel overwhelmed, that’s normal. A good funeral director will slow down and guide you.

Quick checklist

✅ Decide who will be present (if anyone)
✅ Keep entry access clear (lights, door unlocked if safe)
✅ Gather basic info (name, hospice involvement)
✅ Ask questions—nothing is “silly”
✅ Plan arrangements later when you’re ready

If you’d like to know exactly what to expect, call [Spann Funeral Home]—we’ll explain everything ahead of time.

We assist families throughout Dickson, Hickman, and Williamson County including Dickson, Charlotte, Burns, Cumberland Furnace, White Bluff, Fairview, Bon Aqua, Lyles, Kingston Springs and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities.

FAQ

Do we need to be in the same room?
No—you can step away if that’s better.
Will this be loud or disruptive?
No—professional transfers are designed to be discreet.
Do we have to pick a service right then?
No—arrangements can be scheduled later.

< Older Post

How Long Can You Wait Before Calling a Funeral Home?

By Jake Beard • February 24, 2026

Families often ask this in a whisper: “Do we need to call right now?” It’s a completely normal question. In many situations—especially when hospice is involved—you have more time than you think. You are allowed to breathe, gather close family, and take a short moment to process what has happened. That said, timing can depend on the circumstances. Unexpected deaths may involve authorities, and hospital or facility policies may affect when transfer occurs. The safest approach is simply to ask: hospice or staff will tell you what’s appropriate for your situation.