How should I mention a supervisor who has died?

by Juan F
(Fayettevile, NC, USA)

Besides the company changed its name, location and internal structure after a takeover, there is a person who knows me in that company but was not my supervisor.

I was told to indicate my direct supervisors in my last 3 works along with their contact information. Should I mention my ex-supervisor and my friend at the same time? Should I indicate that my ex-supervisor is now dead? Who should a potential employer call in this cases?

More facts:
a. The company is a subsidiary of a national enterprise but it is located in another country.
b. The language spoken in that country is different than English.
c. As an alternative I have a recommendation letter signed by my ex-supervisor but it is written in a foreign language.

How should I play my cards? Thank you.

ANSWER: This is a tricky one for sure, Juan. First off, I would definitely share that your former direct supervisor is now deceased. Along those lines, they should be able to contact the HR department, though, to verify your employment, get info on your job history, past performance, etc.

I would offer the letter you have, even if it is in another language. And you could certainly mention you have a former co-worker who can attest to your performance, though they may or may not be interested.

Much success,
Kathi