Some people are able to prepare for their end of life events. For example, you may have known someone who planned their own funeral or memorial service down to the minute detail, including choosing their grave site or direct cremation provider.
However, sometimes it is necessary to make arrangements at the last minute for someone who died – perhaps if the death was unexpected.
If you have recently encountered such a loss, you have our sympathies. We know your mind must be reeling with all there is to do. However, before you contact your local funeral home, consider a low-cost option that is increasing in popularity – direct cremation.
If you know your loved one would have chosen cremation as their final disposition, consider basic cremation services (or direct cremation). Families choose this eco-friendly choice because it is a simple and affordable disposition option.
What is direct cremation?
Direct cremation occurs when the body is transported from the place of death to the cremation facility. The body is placed in a cremation casket (or simple cremation container).
After the legal next of kin completes the cremation authorization form (and after the proper waiting period required by the state), the body is placed in the extreme heat of the cremation chamber.
The cremated remains, often called “ashes” or “cremains”, are returned to the family. (It is worth noting that the fine powder is, in fact, the remaining bone fragments of the deceased instead of ash).
The main benefit of basic cremation over traditional burial or traditional cremation (where the body is embalmed before being cremated) is that it is less expensive. Besides being a cost-effective option, the simple process allows family members to focus their energies on their grief. It allows families to take time to plan a beautiful funeral service instead of being rushed to figure out how to say goodbye. In addition, cremation arrangements can be made with a single phone call instead of having a long consultation at a funeral home.
Can we still have a funeral or memorial service if we choose direct cremation for our loved one?
Yes, you can still have funeral services for your loved one if you choose to have the body cremated immediately. In fact, when you choose to have the service after the cremation process occurs, you have more flexibility on locations – you won’t have to hold it in the funeral home or crematorium because there won’t be a body present in a casket. Instead, you can have the event at a special location, including where you will be scattering the deceased’s ashes. The service may be religious or secular. You can have a formal event or a time for people to gather and say a few words about the deceased.
Do I need the help of a funeral director to fill out the necessary forms following my loved one’s death?
Some families think they must go to a traditional funeral home when there is a death in the immediate family because that is what they have has always done. However, funeral homes aren’t the only establishments that can assist you with filling out the forms required for the death certificate. Cremation providers can also help you with other considerations – such as creating a memorial page for the deceased or for a veteran.
For a simple and affordable cremation service, contact Smart Cremation. We are a cremation provider that will help you through the entire cremation process – from the removal of your loved one to helping you fill out all the required forms. And when you compare the prices of our services with funeral homes in your area, you will be amazed at how much money you can save.
Contact Smart Cremation immediately following the death of your loved one – no pre-planning is required. We will respond immediately with an affordable quote.
