What To Do When Someone Dies At Home in Tennessee (Step-by-Step Guide)
When someone you love dies at home, it can feel unreal—and overwhelming. If you’re reading this in the middle of a hard moment, take a breath. You do not have to figure everything out at once.
This guide explains what typically happens in Tennessee when a death occurs at home, including who to call, what happens next, and how to take the next step calmly.
Important note: This is general information. Every situation is different, and your hospice nurse, physician, or local authorities may give specific instructions.
Step 1: Determine whether hospice is involved
If your loved one is on hospice:
Call the hospice number first. Hospice will usually send a nurse to the home to confirm the death and guide you through the next steps.
If your loved one is NOT on hospice:
Call 911 (or your local non-emergency number if instructed). An official may need to respond depending on the circumstances.
Step 2: You do not have to rush
Many families worry they must call a funeral home immediately. In most situations, you are allowed time to be together, say goodbye, and contact close family members.
If you’re unsure what is appropriate, hospice or the responding authority can tell you what to expect.
Step 3: When to call the funeral home
In most cases, the funeral home can be called after:
- hospice has guided you (hospice death), or
- authorities have completed what they need to do (non-hospice death)
When you call, we will ask only the essentials:
- your name and contact number
- the address and access information
- the loved one’s full name
- hospice involvement (yes/no)
Step 4: What happens when we arrive
A professional transfer is quiet and respectful. We will:
- confirm identification
- explain what we are doing before we do it
- transport your loved one into our care with dignity
Many families are surprised by how calm this moment can be when it is handled gently.
Step 5: What to do after your loved one is in our care
You do not need to plan everything immediately. Most families schedule arrangements within the next day or two, depending on the situation and family needs.
If you want, we can also give you a simple checklist of what to gather (like ID and basic information) to make the next step easier.
A simple checklist (save this)
- Call hospice (if enrolled) or 911 (if not)
- Take a moment—breathe, call close family
- Choose a funeral home when ready
- Prepare basic info (name, address, phone)
- Ask questions—there are no “wrong” ones
If you need help
If you’re in Dickson County or surrounding communities (Dickson, Charlotte, Burns, Cumberland Furnace and nearby areas), you can call [Spann Funeral Home] anytime. We’ll guide you calmly and clearly, one step at a 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.
If you’d like to talk through what happens next, call us. We’ll help you without pressure.
FAQ
Do I have to call a funeral home immediately?
Often, no. Hospice or authorities can tell you what is appropriate in your situation.
Can family stay with the loved one for a while?
In many cases, yes—especially under hospice guidance.
What if I don’t know what to do?
That’s normal. Call hospice or a funeral director and we’ll guide you.
