Clover is a 36-year-old death doula living an isolated life in New York City. Raised by her grandfather after her parents' early deaths, she observes the world from a distance, preferring to help strangers face their end-of-life transitions rather than taking risks in her own life. She spends her free time watching romantic comedies, attending death cafes, and recording her clients' final words in meticulously organized notebooks.

Clover's Grandfather is a late academic who raised Clover in New York City after she was orphaned at age six. He was a steady, albeit emotionally distant, guardian who taught her to observe the world carefully and appreciate routines. His passing leaves a significant void in Clover's life, anchoring her to his rent-controlled apartment and belongings.

Claudia is Sebastian's elegant, terminally ill grandmother who spent time as a photojournalist in 1950s France. She possesses a vibrant, daring spirit that contrasts with her family's clinical avoidance of her condition. Recognizing the limits of her time, she recruits Clover to help her plan her end-of-life wishes and confront long-held regrets.

Sylvie is a warm, vibrant woman who moves into Clover's apartment building. Her minimalist living style and open, empathetic nature stand in direct opposition to Clover's guarded, cluttered existence. She gently persists in befriending Clover, offering advice on dating and encouraging her to try new experiences like yoga and dance classes.

Sebastian is a persistently curious cellist who seeks help managing his grandmother's impending death. Coming from a family that avoids discussing mortality, he struggles with his own fears while trying to support Claudia. His direct, sometimes thoughtless manner frequently clashes with Clover's careful professionalism.

Hugo is a kind, empathetic man living in Maine who shares his grandfather's name. When Clover and Sebastian track him down, he welcomes their questions and speaks openly about his own experiences with grief. His warmth and comfort with vulnerability provide a calming presence for Clover.

Leo is an elderly, stylish widower who lives in Clover's building. As an old friend of her grandfather, he remains a consistent, reassuring presence in her otherwise isolated life. He acts as a gentle mentor, offering wisdom about the value of human connection and pushing Clover to engage more openly with the world.

Bridget is a neighbor living in the apartment building across from Clover. She is part of a married couple whose seemingly perfect domestic routine catches the attention of her neighbors.

Reuben is Bridget's husband. Living across from Clover's building, he is half of the couple whose domestic life provides a backdrop to Clover's daily routines.

Hugo Beaufort is a Frenchman who shared a brief but profound romance with Claudia before she married. His memory represents the path not taken, serving as a poignant symbol of enduring connection and unexpressed feelings.

Bessie is the owner of a local bookstore that Clover frequents to honor her grandfather's memory. She shares a long, quiet history with Clover's family and maintains the neighborhood business.

Mr. Hyland is Clover's kindergarten teacher who dies suddenly in the middle of a storytelling session. His passing is Clover's first encounter with mortality, sparking her fascination with the final words of the dying.

Abigail is a 26-year-old artist from Idaho facing liver failure. Clover helps facilitate a peaceful environment for her final moments, ensuring she reconnects with her family before passing.

Tim is a fellow volunteer from Clover's college days. His friendly requests for favors lead Clover to mistake his intentions, resulting in an early heartbreak that contributes to her guarded nature.