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We hold the idea that the true self (féin) resides at what one might call the 'core soul level' (anam). The anam is taken to be the unique and individual identity, yet resides within, and is connected to, all of the rest of 'creation' (bith). The microcosm and the macrocosm if you will. Everything else that the Modern World takes to be 'the self' - the intellect, emotions, even the mechanical bits for day to day living, eating, walking, etc, are merely a sort of 'mechanism' to carry the soul through this world and are termed the 'soul shrine' (Coich-Anama - literally 'cowl of the soul'). Thus at the point of death the soul leaves this shrine or cowl and moves on to the next world where it is 'reborn'.
These ideas still, very much, hold sway in the Gaeltacht (Gaelic-speaking areas of Ireland), even though they are now (predominantly) Christian.
In terms of the dying we have an individual called Anam-Cara i.e. 'Soul-Friend'. The anam-cara should generally be known to the patient (and his/her family), but not necessarily be of the family per se, and assists the patient in preparation for the soul journey by helping the patient to come to terms with the process and to tie up any loose ends, especially any worries. Generally these days the anam-cara is a Priest but not necessarily so. Historically the anam-cara would have been of the fáith (seer) class and the assistance given takes the form of a guided 'journey' or immram (or indeed several such journeys) the aim of which being to prepare the soul for its departure and easy travel to the 'Otherworld'. The anam-cara will also offer the same immram service to the close relatives to assist them with the bereavement process.
At the point of death the anam-cara will act as a psychopomp and 'sing' the soul across into the Otherworld using something called the Crónán Báis or 'death croon' (a number of which have been well documented).
Generally from this point, aside from the technical details of arranging the funeral etc, it is traditional to hold a Faire or 'Wake'. These can be somewhat riotous events with feasting and drinking, and although seen by many to be 'disrespectful', quite the reverse is true. The primary reason underlying the wake is that it is a celebration of the soul's rebirth in the Otherworld. Secondarily, but closely connected with this, is the celebration of the dead person's life and deeds in this world. Both of these also assist with the grieving process of the bereaved and are designed to help them let go of the immediate and acute feelings of loss/sadness etc.
Another event that still occurs in Ireland is the Coineadh or 'keening lament and elegy' that occurs at the funeral. Generally this is done by women, who should have had some 'connection' with the deceased and their family (although these days it is often the case that professional 'keeners' are hired for the purpose). Again the purpose of this is to celebrate the deceased's life and their soul's rebirth, and again this aids the grieving process.
Finally it is traditional to honour the deceased at Samhain, and again, a number of traditional song forms are used.
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