When a Loved One Passes: The First 72 Hours

A Practical Guide for Families Handling the First Steps After Loss

By Paula Chavez – DestinyMakersLV 🧭

Losing someone you love is one of life’s most overwhelming experiences. In the middle of grief, families are suddenly faced with difficult questions:

What do we do first?

Who do we call?

What paperwork needs to be handled?

What responsibilities must be taken care of immediately?

Most people are never prepared for these moments.

When a Loved One Passes: The First 72 Hours was created to guide families through the very first steps after a loss. This practical and compassionate guide helps you understand what needs to be done during the first hours and days so you can focus on honoring your loved one and supporting your family.

Inside this guide, you will learn:

• What to do immediately after someone passes

• Who should be contacted first

• How to work with a funeral home

• How to secure important belongings and documents

• Why death certificates are necessary

• What financial responsibilities may arise

• How to notify employers and institutions

• How to navigate the emotional weight of the first days of grief

This book does not rush the grieving process. Instead, it provides clear guidance so families can move through the practical steps with confidence and less confusion.

Whether you are preparing ahead of time or navigating a recent loss, this guide can help bring clarity during one of life’s most difficult moments.

Part of the DestinyMakersLV Healing & Reflection Collection

This book is the first guide in a series created to help families understand the practical, emotional, and legal steps that follow the loss of a loved one.