noun
bereaved family; surviving family; family of the deceased
Refers to the family members left behind after someone has died. Common in news, legal, and condolence contexts.
事故の遺族に補償金が支払われた。
Compensation was paid to the bereaved family of the accident.
遺族の意向を尊重して葬儀を行った。
The funeral was held respecting the wishes of the surviving family.