Cremation Information

What is Cremation?

Part of making funeral arrangements on behalf of a loved one involves choosing between burial of the body or cremation. Certainly this is an important decision, based on factors such as religious or spiritual beliefs, finances, or family customs. These are just some of the reasons we've heard for choosing cremation. Here's what you'll need to consider:

Cremation Explained

The Cremation Association of North America describes cremation as, "The thermal dissolution process that reduces human remains to fragments."

People choose cremation over burial of casketed remains for any number of reasons. Sometimes it's the simple fear of burial itself, which may stem from the Victorian phobia of being buried alive. Ultimately the choice is yours.

What is Required to Arrange Cremation?

Once the cremation-over-burial decision has been made, all that's required is authorization. This is provided by the person who is the legally identified or appointed next-of-kin. Once all authorization documents are signed and service charges are paid, the body can be transported from the place of death to the crematory and the cremation process can take place.

However, here are some additional considerations:

Is there a special set of clothes (such as a military uniform or favorite dress) your loved one would appreciate the thought of wearing?
Are there any keepsake items you'd like to include in their cremation casket?
Would you or other family members like to be present for –- or participate in –- your loved one's cremation? Some cultures require this.
What will you keep the cremated remains or ashes in after the service?

Why Choose Cremation?

Everyone has their own personal reasons for choosing cremation over traditional casketed burial.

Cremation Costs are Only One Reason

Generally speaking, cremations tend to cost less thank casketed burials. However, given the religious, ethnic and regional diversity among us, there are other reasons for the rise in the number of cremations performed each year.

Cremation allows a family the flexibility they may need in planning and preparing for a memorial service, Celebration of Life or an ash-scattering ceremony. While the cremation process can occur almost immediately, the decisions required in planning a meaningful memorial service for a loved one can be made in a more relaxed, thoughtful way. Family can be given more time to prepare and attend.

Are You Ready to Talk?

We want you to know that no matter your reasons for considering cremation, we're here to help you explore your options. When you're ready, contact us or use our secure and completely confidential message form below.