the deceased; the departed
A respectful or formal noun for a person who has died. Often used when speaking about the person with consideration, as in 故人をしのぶ or 故人の遺志.
Relatives and friends gathered to remember the deceased.
We hope to carry on the wishes of the departed.
old friend; longtime acquaintance
Dated use meaning an old friend or long-standing acquaintance. In modern Japanese, 旧友 or 古い友人 is normally used instead; 故人 is now overwhelmingly understood as 'the deceased.'
In older writing, 故人 can refer to a friend of long standing.
Carrying on the deceased's wishes, he established a foundation.
All those present prayed for the repose of the deceased's soul.
We sent a telegram of condolence to the deceased's bereaved family.