When we here the word “Cremation” many ideas run through our mind. However, we must ultimately understand that cremation is means of disposition, the same as burial is a means of disposition. Of course, they are totally different and both are permanent. This section is here to help you understand the different types of options when we speak of cremation. Let’s begin.
What is Cremation? In technical terms, cremation is the process of reducing the deceased to their basic chemical compounds and elemental form in gases and bone fragments. This is accomplished through consumption by fire at high temperatures and vaporization. In funeral terms, it is the reduction of the human body to ashes.
When cremation is selected it does not end the process of funeral arrangements. It is only one of many choices that will need to be made to complete the process of ‘funeral arrangements’. Here are the three main choices when cremation is selected.
A) Traditional funeral with cremation as means of disposition:
This selection is similar to a ‘traditional funeral’ in that the body is made ready for visitation; a funeral service is conducted with the clergy of your choosing. At the conclusion of these services, instead of burial, the deceased is taken to the crematory. Upon completion of the cremation the ashes are brought back to the funeral home to be returned to the family.
B) Simple cremation with a service following at a later time:
This selection has the deceased cremated first, the ashes are then brought back to the funeral home and service (memorial or celebration of life) is conducted. Scheduling of these services is at the families convenience. Following the service the ashes are returned to the family.
C) Simple cremation with no services scheduled for a later time:
This selection has the deceased cremated; the ashes are then brought back to the funeral home and returned to the family.
What do you do with the ‘Ashes’ when they are returned?
This is a very common question. Once your loved one is cremated, there are no legal requirements of what to do with them. Some people will purchase an urn to keep them in the home. It is sometimes the request of the deceased to have their ashes ‘scattered’. Scattering is permissible however, common sense and good taste, are always key in ‘scattering’ ashes. We must be mindful of county, state and federal laws and not to ‘scatter’ them in public places. We might also bury the ashes in a family plot or with other family members. This is also permissible, however, you must check with the cemetery and the cemetery sexton, to find out the rules and regulations for said burial. Scattering of ashes may not be permissible in some cemeteries. In recent years, keepsakes have become available to hold a small amount of ashes. Examples of these are miniature urns or jewelry that are designed to hold the ashes.
As with all services provided by Carter Trent Funeral Home, Inc., it is our goal to offer to you the ultimate of service and to give you as many choices as it takes to help you choose a funeral that will fulfill your needs, and provide you the opportunity to remember your loved one in a way that reflects your love and care.
