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In Oklahoma City, cremation has become a preferred choice over traditional burials for many, offering numerous benefits such as cost efficiency, environmental friendliness, and flexibility in memorial services. Understanding what cremation entails, its benefits, and guidelines in OKC can provide clarity during an emotionally challenging period.
What is Cremation?
Cremation is a process that turns a deceased's physical remains into ashes, using high heat and flame. In contrast to a traditional burial, cremation allows the loved ones to keep the remains, scatter or bury them in a special location.
Benefits of Cremation in Oklahoma City
Cremation in Oklahoma has specific benefits which can ease the grieving process for many.
Economical:
Cremation can be a cost-effective choice. It eliminates the need for a burial plot, casket, or headstone - significant expenses associated with traditional funerals.
Flexible:
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Cremation offers more time to plan a fitting memorial. Families can choose to scatter ashes in a meaningful location, keep them at home, or intern them at a cemetery later.
Environmentally Friendly:
Cremation has less environmental impact compared to burials. With more people becoming environmentally conscious, it's a consideration for many families.
Cremation Laws in Oklahoma City
Families choosing cremation should be aware of Oklahoma laws. OKC stipulates a 24-hour waiting period after death before cremation. Also, a licensed funeral director or an authorized person must oversee the process.
Oklahoma City Cremation Example:
Consider John Smith, an environmentally conscious individual who loved the natural beauty of Oklahoma. When he passed away, his family opted for cremation, in harmony with his beliefs. The process was cost-effective, allowing the family to host a memorial service at his favorite natural park, where they scattered his ashes. The family appreciated the time and flexibility to create a memorial that truly celebrated their loved one's life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cremation?
Cremation is a process that uses high heat and flame to reduce a deceased person’s body to bone fragments, which are then processed into a finer substance, commonly referred to as ashes.
Is cremation a common choice in Oklahoma City?
Yes, cremation has become an increasingly common choice for final arrangements in Oklahoma City, as well as throughout the United States, due to its cost-effectiveness and flexibility.
How do I arrange for a cremation in Oklahoma City?
To arrange for a cremation in Oklahoma City, you can contact a funeral home or a crematory directly. They will guide you through the legal requirements and the process of arranging a cremation for your loved one.
Are there legal documents required for cremation?
Yes, legal documents such as a death certificate and authorization forms must be completed and filed before a cremation can occur. The funeral home or crematory you choose will assist you with these.
How much does cremation cost in Oklahoma City?
The cost of cremation in Oklahoma City can vary widely depending on the provider and the services selected. Basic cremation services may start at a few hundred dollars, but additional services will increase the cost.
Can I have a funeral service with a cremation?
Absolutely. Many families opt to have a traditional funeral service prior to the cremation, or a memorial service after the cremation with the ashes present.
What happens to the ashes after cremation?
After cremation, the remains (ashes) are usually returned to the family in an urn or temporary container. Families can then decide if they wish to keep the ashes, scatter them, or inter them in a cemetery.
Can I scatter the ashes in Oklahoma City?
In Oklahoma City, you may scatter ashes over uninhabited public land, private land with the owner’s consent, or in designated scattering gardens at cemeteries. It's important to check local regulations for any restrictions.
Do I need to buy an urn from the crematory?
No, you are not required to purchase an urn from the crematory. You can supply your own urn, or choose not to use one if you prefer to scatter the ashes.
Is embalming required for cremation?
Embalming is not usually required for cremation unless there is going to be a public viewing or funeral service with the body present before the cremation.
How long does the cremation process take?
The cremation process itself usually takes 2 to 3 hours. However, obtaining all necessary permits and documentation can extend the time before the actual cremation takes place.
What is a direct cremation?
A direct cremation is a straightforward cremation without any funeral or memorial services. It is the most cost-effective option, with the deceased being cremated shortly after death and the ashes returned to the family.
Can I personalize a cremation service?
Yes, cremation services can be personalized in many ways, including the choice of urn, the location and type of memorial service, and the final disposition of the ashes.
Is there assistance available for cremation costs?
Assistance for cremation costs may be available through local charities, fundraising, community services, or veterans' benefits. Each situation is unique, so it is advisable to explore all options.
How do I choose a crematory in Oklahoma City?
When choosing a crematory, consider factors like reputation, price, services offered, and the level of comfort and confidence you feel with the provider. Online reviews and personal recommendations can be helpful in making a decision.
What should I do with the cremated remains if I move out of Oklahoma City?
If you move, you can take the cremated remains with you, entrust them to a family member or friend, or arrange for them to be interred in a columbarium or buried in a cemetery.
What is the difference between a columbarium and a mausoleum?
A columbarium is a structure designed to house cremated remains in urns within niches, while a mausoleum is a building designed to house whole bodies, usually in caskets, within tombs or crypts.
Can cremated remains be divided among family members?
Yes, cremated remains can be divided among family members if desired. This allows different individuals to keep a portion of the ashes or to scatter or inter them in various places of significance.
Are there special urns for scattering ashes?
There are special urns designed to make the scattering of ashes easier, such as biodegradable urns for water or specially designed scattering tubes for land.
What should I consider when choosing an urn?
When choosing an urn, consider the urn’s material, size, design, and whether it will be displayed, kept in a niche, buried, or used for scattering. Personal preference and the intended final disposition play a significant role in this choice.
Is it possible to witness the cremation?
Many crematories in Oklahoma City allow family members to be present for the start of the cremation process. This is often a personal choice and arrangements can be made with the crematory in advance.
Cremation in Oklahoma City offers a sensitive, flexible, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional burials. It allows families to choose how and when they wish to memorialize their loved ones. Sharing this information with others can assist in making informed decisions during a tough time. Discover more useful guides on Eulogy Assistant to help navigate planning, grieving, and cherishing memories.