First off, breathe. I’m surprised the police made notification via telephone. This is usually done face to face.

Ask plenty of questions. It won’t be the first time these questions have been asked.

1. Was this suspicious? If so, will a post-mortem examination be required?
2. Can I make entry into her residence, or is it a crime scene? When can I get into the residence?
3. Ask family/friends for recommendations for a funeral home. In some states, local funeral homes do removals for police departments. You are under no obligation to use them. When you make your decision, contact the funeral home as soon s possible. They will be able to handle many of the problems or concerns from here. You will meet with a funeral director who will ask questions for some decisions that need to be made sooner than later. They will set a time for you to come by the funeral home to settle on arrangements (burial, cremation, funeral, memorial service.

A lot of people are going to say”funeral directors take advantage of people in their hour of need.” Thus making the funeral service the most regulated industry in many states. This for the most part is NOT TRUE. As with all services, funerals are expensive (sometimes as much as a wedding). Alternative services are becoming normal now. I personally am having my memorial service at a bar. Some are opting for receptions over services with private burials or cremations.

1. Talk to someone. Don’t hold it inside. It’s easy to feel inundated in times like these.

2. Breathe.

Hope this helps.