This phrase is old-fashioned and rarely used in everyday conversation. In old literature, characters often departed this life surrounded by family.
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Serious Tone
Used to give a serious or respectful tone when talking about death. At the funeral, the eulogy mentioned how he had departed this life too soon.
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Euphemistic Expression
It's a gentle way of saying someone has died, often used to soften the harshness. The family said their beloved grandmother had departed this life after a long illness.