Cremation Society of TN

What is Cremation, and Why is it Becoming So Popular?

Cremation is the process of reducing a deceased person's body to its basic elements through high-temperature burning. It's a simple, yet profound, way to return our loved ones to the earth. And it's gaining popularity fast – in 2020, over 53% of Americans chose cremation over traditional burial.

So, why the shift? For one, cremation is a more environmentally friendly option. Traditional burials take up valuable land and resources, while cremation reduces the body to a small amount of ash. It's also a more affordable option, with costs averaging around 30% less than traditional funerals.

But cremation is more than just a practical choice – it's also a deeply personal one. It allows us to say goodbye in a way that feels authentic and meaningful, whether that's through a traditional funeral service or a more non-traditional celebration of life.

The Cremation Process: What to Expect

So, what happens during the cremation process? Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Initial Preparation: The deceased is prepared for cremation, which may include washing, dressing, and cosmetic preparation.
• Container Selection: The family selects a cremation container, which can range from a simple cardboard box to a decorative urn.
• Cremation: The body is placed in the cremation chamber, where it's exposed to high temperatures (typically between 1400°C to 1800°C) for 1-2 hours.
• Processing: After cremation, the remains are processed into a fine powder, known as cremated remains or ashes.
• Return of Remains: The ashes are returned to the family, who can then choose to bury, scatter, or keep them in an urn.

It's a dignified, respectful process that allows us to honor our loved ones in a way that's both meaningful and environmentally sustainable.

Cremation Options: Finding the Right Fit for You

At the Cremation Society of TN, we believe that every individual is unique, and their cremation options should be too. That's why we offer a range of choices to fit your needs and preferences:

• Traditional Cremation: A traditional funeral service followed by cremation.
• Direct Cremation: A simple, low-cost option that skips the funeral service and goes straight to cremation.
• Witness Cremation: A private cremation ceremony where the family can witness the process.
• An eco-friendly option that uses biodegradable containers and minimizes environmental impact.

We also offer a range of urns, from traditional to decorative, to help you honor your loved one in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.

What to Do with Cremated Remains: Ideas and Inspiration

So, what do you do with the ashes after cremation? The possibilities are endless, and it's a great opportunity to get creative and celebrate your loved one's life:

• Scattering: Scatter the ashes in a special place that held meaning to your loved one, such as a favorite park or beach.
• Burial: Bury the ashes in a traditional cemetery or a natural burial ground.
• Urn Placement: Place the ashes in an urn and display them in a special place, such as a mantle or memorial garden.
• Tree Planting: Plant a tree in memory of your loved one, using the ashes as fertilizer.

The most important thing is to choose an option that feels right for you and your family. We're here to support you every step of the way.

The Benefits of Pre-Planning Your Cremation

Pre-planning your cremation may not be the most glamorous topic, but it's an important one. By planning ahead, you can:

• Lock in Costs: Pre-pay for your cremation services and avoid future price increases.
• Ensure Your Wishes: Make sure your loved ones know exactly what you want, avoiding confusion and stress during a difficult time.
• Reduce Burden: Take the burden off your family by making all the necessary arrangements ahead of time.

We offer a range of pre-planning options, from simple to comprehensive, to fit your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions: Cremation Edition

We know you have questions about cremation – and we're here to answer them:

1. Is cremation a safe process?

Yes, cremation is a safe and regulated process that's governed by strict laws and guidelines.

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

Absolutely! You can have a traditional funeral service, a memorial service, or even a celebration of life – the options are endless.

3. How do I know I'm getting my loved one's ashes back?

We use a unique identification system to ensure that the ashes you receive are those of your loved one.

4. Can I scatter ashes on private property?

Yes, but you'll need to get permission from the property owner first.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

We're here to support you every step of the way. Whether you're planning ahead or need immediate assistance, we offer a range of resources and community support to help you navigate the cremation process:

• Pre-Planning Guide: Download our comprehensive guide to pre-planning your cremation.
• Grief Support: Access our online grief support resources, including articles, videos, and online support groups.
• Community Events: Join us for community events, including memorial services and support groups.

We're committed to helping you honor your loved one in a way that's both meaningful and environmentally sustainable.