Mid Ohio Valley Cremation Society

What Is Cremation, and Why Is It Becoming the New Norm?

Cremation is a dignified and eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial. It's a process that reduces the body to its basic elements, leaving behind a legacy that's not only environmentally sustainable but also cost-effective. As the world becomes more aware of its carbon footprint, cremation is emerging as a popular choice for those who want to minimize their impact on the planet.

But cremation is more than just an eco-friendly option – it's also a way to celebrate life. With cremation, you have the freedom to create a personalized memorial service that reflects the personality and spirit of your loved one. From scattering ashes in a special location to creating a unique urn that tells a story, the possibilities are endless.

The Benefits of Choosing Cremation

So, why are more people choosing cremation over traditional burial? Here are just a few benefits that set cremation apart:

• Environmental Sustainability: Cremation reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional burial, making it a more eco-friendly option.
• Cost-Effective: Cremation is often less expensive than traditional burial, which can be a significant cost savings for families.
• Personalization: Cremation allows for a more personalized memorial service, giving families the freedom to create a unique tribute to their loved one.
• Flexibility: With cremation, families have more flexibility in terms of timing and location, making it easier to plan a memorial service that works for everyone.

The Cremation Process: What to Expect

While the thought of cremation may seem overwhelming, the process itself is quite straightforward. Here's what you can expect:

1. Initial Call: When a loved one passes away, the first step is to contact a cremation provider, such as the Mid Ohio Valley Cremation Society.
2. Transportation: The cremation provider will transport the body to their facility, where it will be prepared for cremation.
3. Preparation: The body will be cleaned and prepared for cremation, which may include dressing the body in a favorite outfit or adding personal items.
4. Cremation: The body is then placed in a cremation chamber, where it's reduced to its basic elements through a process of high-temperature burning.
5. Return of Ashes: After cremation, the ashes are returned to the family, who can then choose to bury, scatter, or keep them in an urn.

Types of Cremation Services: Finding the Right Fit

At the Mid Ohio Valley Cremation Society, we understand that every family is unique, which is why we offer a range of cremation services to fit your needs:

• Direct Cremation: A simple, cost-effective option that includes transportation, preparation, and cremation.
• Cremation with Memorial Service: A more personalized option that includes a memorial service, often with a viewing or visitation.
• Cremation with Burial: For those who want to bury their loved one's ashes in a traditional cemetery or other location.

Planning Ahead: The Importance of Pre-Planning

While it may seem morbid to think about death, pre-planning can be a thoughtful and responsible way to ensure that your wishes are respected. By planning ahead, you can:

• Lock in Costs: Pre-planning allows you to lock in costs at today's prices, which can be a significant cost savings.
• Ensure Your Wishes: By planning ahead, you can ensure that your wishes are respected, giving you peace of mind and reducing the burden on your loved ones.
• Simplify the Process: Pre-planning simplifies the process for your loved ones, who will appreciate having a clear plan in place.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation

Here are some frequently asked questions about cremation:

1. Is cremation a new concept?

No, cremation has been around for thousands of years, with evidence of cremation dating back to ancient civilizations.

2. Is cremation only for certain religions?

No, cremation is not exclusive to any particular religion. It's a choice that's available to anyone, regardless of their faith or beliefs.

3. Can I still have a funeral or memorial service with cremation?

Yes, absolutely! Cremation does not preclude a funeral or memorial service. In fact, many families choose to hold a service before or after the cremation process.

4. What happens to the ashes after cremation?

The ashes are returned to the family, who can then choose to bury, scatter, or keep them in an urn. Some families also choose to divide the ashes among multiple family members or friends.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

At the Mid Ohio Valley Cremation Society, we're committed to supporting you every step of the way. Here are some resources and community support options to consider:

• Grief Counseling: We offer free grief counseling sessions to help you cope with your loss.
• Support Groups: Join one of our support groups to connect with others who have experienced a similar loss.
• Online Resources: Check out our online resources, including articles, videos, and webinars, to learn more about cremation and the grieving process.