Cremation Service

The decision to cremate a loved one is a deeply personal one, and often comes mired in emotion, tradition, and numerous other factors. If you've chosen a cremation service, you might be filled with questions about what to expect, the process, and ways to honor your loved one. In this post, we'll provide you a comprehensive guide on cremation services to make this challenging phase somewhat more manageable.

Understanding Cremation

Cremation is a process used as an alternative to the traditional burial. The body is reduced to ashes by extreme heat in a specially designed furnace. This process is executed under strict regulations for health, safety, and respect for the deceased.

The Process of Cremation

Before the cremation begins, the personal possessions of the deceased are removed. Jewelry, medical devices, and prosthetics are also taken out. The body is then placed in a special cremation casket made of flammable materials. The body is exposed to flames within a furnace, called a crematorium, which burns at high temperatures. After the cremation, the ashes are typically given to the family in an urn.

Types of Cremation Service

• Direct Cremation: This involves cremating the body soon after death without a viewing or funeral service. It is the least expensive option.
• Cremation Memorial: The body is cremated first, followed by a memorial service at a later date.
• Traditional Cremation: The body is viewed and a funeral service is held before the body is cremated.

Honoring the Deceased After a Cremation

There are many ways to honor a loved one after their cremation. Some choose to scatter the ashes in a meaningful place, keeping them in an urn at home, or creating keepsake jewelry.

Cremation Service Example:

Jane, overwhelmed by the recent loss of her mother, opts for a direct cremation service. She prefers a private, intimate memorial service later at her mother's favorite beach. By using a cremation service, Jane is able to grieve in her own time and have a personalized experience that feels true to her mother's memory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cremation?

Cremation is a method of final disposition of a deceased body through burning. It involves the use of high-temperature burning, vaporization, and oxidation to reduce the body to its basic chemical compounds, generally ashes.

How does the cremation process work?

The cremation process begins with the placement of the deceased in a cremation chamber where the body is exposed to high temperatures of around 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. This results in the body being reduced to bone fragments, which are then processed into a finer ash.

Is a casket required for cremation?

No, a traditional casket is not required for cremation. However, the body must be enclosed in a combustible, rigid, leak-proof, covered container to allow for the dignified handling of the deceased.

What happens to the ashes after cremation?

After cremation, the ashes, also known as cremains, are collected and transferred into a temporary container or an urn chosen by the family. The family can then decide to keep, scatter, bury, or place the ashes in a columbarium.

Can the family be present during the cremation?

Family presence at the actual cremation depends on the facilities of the crematorium. Some allow for family members to witness the cremation, while others may offer viewing through a window or a formal service beforehand.

How long does the cremation process take?

The cremation process typically takes 2 to 3 hours for the body to be reduced to bone fragments, followed by a cooling period. The entire process including preparation, paperwork, and the actual cremation can take up to several days.

Are the ashes returned to the family pure?

Yes, the cremains returned to the family are primarily bone fragments that have been processed into a consistent granular form. Modern crematories adhere to strict policies to ensure the integrity and cleanliness of the ashes.

Can I personalize a cremation service?

Absolutely. Cremation services can be personalized in many ways, from the choice of urn, to the location and style of the memorial service, to keepsake jewelry containing portions of the ashes, and more.

What are the benefits of cremation over burial?

Cremation offers several benefits, including cost-effectiveness, simpler logistics, conservation of cemetery space, and flexibility in memorial service planning and final disposition of the remains.

Is cremation environmentally friendly?

Cremation generally uses fewer resources than traditional burials, but it does produce emissions. There are greener options like bio-cremation, which uses a water-based process, reducing the carbon footprint.

Can we have a funeral service before the cremation?

Yes, traditional funeral services can be held before a cremation. This may include viewing and visitation hours, followed by a funeral service, either with the body present in a casket or with an urn on display.

How do we handle the ashes after cremation for a loved one?

Handling cremated remains is a personal choice. Options include keeping them in an urn, scattering them in a meaningful place, burying them in a cemetery, or placing them in a columbarium niche.

Is cremation accepted by all religions?

While cremation is accepted by many religions, there are still some that prefer traditional burial methods. It is important to consult with your religious leader to understand the specific beliefs and guidelines of your faith.

What is the cost of a cremation service?

The cost of a cremation service can vary widely based on location, type of service, choice of urn, and additional services or products. Direct cremation tends to be the least expensive option, while services with memorials or viewings can increase the price.

Can multiple cremations be performed at once?

Most laws and industry practices stipulate that cremations must be carried out individually to ensure the dignity of the deceased and to avoid co-mingling of remains.

Are there regulations pertaining to scattering ashes?

Yes, there are regulations that differ by locality. These may pertain to public lands, private property, and waterways. It’s important to seek permission and understand the rules of the desired scattering location before proceeding.

How do I choose the right urn for my needs?

Choosing the right urn involves considering the final placement of the urn, personal taste in design and material, and budget. Consider also the size of the urn, as it should have enough capacity to hold the cremains of your loved one.

How should I transport the ashes after cremation?

Ashes should be transported in a sealed urn or temporary container. For transport by plane, check with the airline for their specific policies. If shipping is necessary, the USPS offers specific guidelines for sending cremains safely.

Can I still have a visitation or viewing with cremation?

Yes, visitations or viewings can be arranged prior to cremation. This allows family and friends to gather and pay their respects in a traditional manner. Rental caskets are often used for this purpose.

What is a "direct cremation"?

Direct cremation refers to the cremation of the body without any preceding funeral service or ceremony. It is the most economical option as it typically involves no embalming, visitation, or viewing.

What if I have more questions about arranging a cremation service?

If you have more questions, it is best to contact a local funeral home or cremation service provider. They can offer detailed information and clarify any concerns you may have about the cremation process and associated services.

Choosing cremation service is a significant decision, one that deeply affects how you say goodbye to your loved one. Remember, this path is not any less respectful or loving than traditional burial—it's just different. We hope this guide on cremation service has made things clearer for you. Please feel free to share this article with someone who might also find it useful. For more guides on eulogies and funeral services, explore Eulogy Assistant further.