Cremation Society of Tennessee

What is Cremation, and How Does it Work?

Cremation is a process that reduces a body to its basic elements, leaving behind a small amount of ash and bone fragments. This process typically takes place in a cremation chamber, where the body is exposed to high temperatures, reducing it to a state of ash and bone.

The resulting ashes, also known as cremated remains, can be stored in an urn, scattered in a special location, or buried in a cemetery or memorial garden. Cremation offers a range of options for families to honor their loved ones, from traditional funeral services to more contemporary celebrations of life.

Benefits of Cremation

Cremation is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many families, and for good reason. Here are some of the benefits of cremation:

• Cost-effective: Cremation can be a more affordable option compared to traditional burial, with costs ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the services chosen.
• Environmental benefits: Cremation requires less land and resources compared to traditional burial, making it a more eco-friendly option.
• Flexibility: Cremation allows for a range of memorialization options, from traditional funeral services to scattering in a special location.
• Personalization: Cremation enables families to create a unique and personalized celebration of life, reflecting the personality and interests of their loved one.

Cremation Options: Choosing the Right Path for You

At the Cremation Society of Tennessee, we understand that every family is unique, and that's why we offer a range of cremation options to suit your needs:

• Direct Cremation: A simple, cost-effective option that involves cremation without a funeral service or viewing.
• Cremation with a Memorial Service: A service that takes place after cremation, allowing family and friends to gather and celebrate the life of their loved one.
• Cremation with a Funeral Service: A traditional funeral service followed by cremation, offering a sense of closure and finality.

Cremation and Memorialization: Honoring Your Loved One's Memory

Cremation offers a range of memorialization options, allowing you to honor your loved one's memory in a way that feels personal and meaningful:

• Urn Selection: Choose from a variety of urns, ranging from traditional to modern designs, to store your loved one's cremated remains.
• Scattering: Scatter your loved one's ashes in a special location, such as a park, beach, or mountain, creating a sense of connection to nature.
• Burial: Bury your loved one's ashes in a cemetery or memorial garden, providing a permanent resting place.
• Tree Planting: Plant a tree in memory of your loved one, symbolizing growth, renewal, and the cycle of life.

Planning Ahead: The Importance of Pre-Planning

Pre-planning your cremation services can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones, ensuring that your wishes are respected and your family is protected from unnecessary emotional and financial burdens.

By pre-planning, you can:

• Lock in costs: Protect your family from rising funeral costs by pre-paying for your cremation services.
• Ensure your wishes: Clearly outline your preferences for cremation, memorialization, and other services, ensuring that your family honors your wishes.
• Reduce stress: Remove the emotional burden from your loved ones, allowing them to focus on celebrating your life rather than making difficult decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation

Here are some frequently asked questions about cremation, answered by our expert team:

1. Is cremation a new practice?

No, cremation has been practiced for thousands of years, with evidence of ancient civilizations using cremation as a means of honoring their dead.

2. Is cremation against any religious beliefs?

While some religions may have specific guidelines or prohibitions regarding cremation, many religions and cultures accept cremation as a valid option.

3. Can I still have a funeral service if I choose cremation?

Yes, you can still have a funeral service, memorial service, or celebration of life, even if you choose cremation.

4. How do I know that the ashes I receive are those of my loved one?

We take great care to ensure that the ashes you receive are those of your loved one, using a unique identification system to track the cremation process from start to finish.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

At the Cremation Society of Tennessee, we're committed to providing you with the resources and support you need to navigate the cremation process with confidence:

• Pre-Planning Guide: Download our comprehensive pre-planning guide to learn more about the cremation process and how to plan ahead.
• Community Support: Join our online community to connect with others who have experienced loss and find support and guidance.
• Expert Advice: Contact our experienced team to answer any questions you may have about cremation, memorialization, and pre-planning.