What to do when someone dies

If you’ve recently lost someone dear to you, please accept our heartfelt condolences. We understand this is a deeply emotional and uncertain time. You don’t need to face it alone — we are here to guide you, gently and respectfully, through each step ahead.

Our Contact & Location

We offer a full range of funeral services tailored to your wishes, faith, and family traditions:

W. G. Bernard Mathias & Daughter
62 New Street,
St Davids, Haverfordwest,
Pembrokeshire, SA62 6SU

Telephone (24‑hour):
• 01437 720537 (day or night)
• Additional office: 01437 720340

Email: funerals@mathias.org.uk
Website: mathiasfuneraldirectors.co.uk

We are always here when you need us.

When Someone Dies at Home or in a Care Home

1. Contact the GP or call 111
If the death was expected, a doctor will visit to confirm the death and issue a medical certificate.

2. Call Us When You’re Ready
Once the doctor has been, please call us. We will bring your loved one into our care with dignity and compassion, giving you the time you need to process and gather your thoughts.

3. The Medical Examiner Will Call
A Medical Examiner (an experienced NHS doctor) will speak with you to explain the cause of death and answer any questions. This is a routine part of the process in Wales and must be completed before you can register the death.

When Someone Dies in Hospital

The hospital team will confirm the death and inform the Medical Examiner.
You’ll receive a phone call from the Medical Examiner to discuss the cause of death.
Once everything is in place, the hospital will send documents to the registrar so you can register the death.

If the Death Was Unexpected or Sudden

Call 999 immediately.
Emergency services will attend and provide guidance. If necessary, the death may be referred to the coroner.
If this happens, we will support you gently through the process and remain in contact throughout.

Registering the Death

You will need to register the death within 5 days of the Medical Examiner confirming the paperwork.

Where to register:
Pembrokeshire Register Office
Pembrokeshire Archives Building,
Prendergast, Haverfordwest, SA61 2PE

Book an appointment: 01437775176

Website: gov.uk/register-offices

What you will be given:

Death Certificate – Please note there is a small charge for each certified copy. If you will be contacting banks, pension providers, or insurers, we recommend ordering more than one.
Certificate for Burial or Cremation – also known as the green form
Tell Us Once details – to help notify government departments in one step
If you’re unsure about anything, the registrar or our team can explain what’s needed.

Arranging the Funeral

You are welcome to call us at any point — even before registration is complete. When you’re ready, we’ll sit with you (in person or by phone) to gently talk through the type of farewell that feels right.

We can help with:

Choosing between burial or cremation
Religious, non-religious, or family-led ceremonies
Meaningful touches such as music, flowers, readings, and personal tributes
Taking care of all paperwork and formalities on your behalf

There’s no rush. We’ll move at your pace and make sure everything reflects your loved one’s life and wishes.

You’re Not Alone

This is a time of great emotion. You may feel uncertain, overwhelmed, or simply exhausted. Please know we are here — not just as professionals, but as people who care deeply.

Address: 62 New Street, St Davids, Pembrokeshire, SA62 6SU
Phones: 01437 720537 (24-hour)
Email: funerals@mathias.org.uk
Website: mathiasfuneraldirectors.co.uk

We promise to support you with kindness, understanding, and the utmost respect at every step.