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For some, cremation services are a modern alternative to traditional burials. For others, cremation has a strong history in their culture and is a familiar choice when bidding farewell to a loved one. Regardless of why you're considering cremation, it's important to understand what will be involved in the process and what types of decisions you'll need to make as you organize your loved one's service.

How Cremation Works

If you choose cremation, you still have the opportunity to hold a funeral or viewing before the cremation takes place. Then, during the cremation, the remains will be placed in a furnace, either in a suitable casket or without one. The ash produced will be returned to the family to be kept, interred, or scattered. You may choose to have a memorial service afterward, either instead of or in addition to a traditional funeral. If you choose to scatter the remains, you should first check with local legislation—many states have regulations on where the remains can be dispersed.

Decisions to Make

Caskets

If you are holding a funeral before cremation, you will need to select a casket. Many funeral homes offer caskets for rental in these situations; otherwise, your selection will be limited to flammable wooden options. You may also elect to proceed with cremation without a casket.

Funeral or Memorial Service

The primary difference between a funeral and a memorial service is whether the remains of the deceased are present. In general, memorials offer a more flexible time frame than funeral services; however, if you embalm the remains before a funeral service, you can schedule the ceremony for a later date. You can embalm the remains even if you plan to cremate after the ceremony.

Final Disposition

Cremation ServicesOnce the ashes have been returned to you, you'll need to decide what to do with them. Many people opt to place the ashes in an urn to be kept either in the home or in a columbarium. Others scatter the ashes in places that are special to the deceased. There are also specialty options offered by a range of companies, such as having the ashes made into jewelry or launching them into space.

As you begin funeral arrangements for your loved one, consider cremation. This can be a meaningful option for many families. If you have questions, your funeral director will give you the information you need.

 

Whitley's Funeral Home in Kannapolis, NC, offers funeral and cremation services to residents. The compassionate and knowledgeable staff will help you through the planning process so you can decide what is right for your loved one. Their facilities also include a peaceful atmosphere for private viewings in a bedroom-like setting. If you have questions, call them today at (704) 933-2222 or learn more online.

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