While many people today still opt for traditional burials, cremation is increasingly popular, prized for its low cost and flexibility. However, many people still have questions about what they should expect when a loved one is cremated. Here are a few common questions about cremation answered, and why you should consider this modern take on funerals.

Your Cremation Questions Answered

Do I Need to Purchase a Casket?

Not if you don’t want to. While it is entirely possible to place cremated remains in a traditional casket to make the ceremony more acceptable for family members who prefer burials, you don’t need a casket at all. In fact, many families choose direct cremation, which involves moving the body directly from the home or hospital to the funeral home, where the remains are incinerated. Afterward, the ashes will be returned to the family and can be placed in a special urn or another container of your choice.

Can We Still Hold a Viewing?

Absolutely. Many families choose to hold viewings before the cremation. If you don’t wish to purchase a casket, you can rent one for use at the memorial service. After the viewing is over, the body can even be moved in the casket to the funeral home, where cremation will take place.

What Should I Do With the Ashes?

One of the neatest things about cremation is that it gives families the chance to customize their memorial to the deceased. While many people choose to place ashes in a decorative urn, others scatter ashes in special places or create cremation jewelry with the remains.

How Are Cremated Remains Packaged & Labeled?

While cremated remains are treated with the highest respect, they can be shipped like any other parcel. Cremains can be placed in nondescript boxes and sent around the world to family members who live far away. Labeling is done in a very professional manner, since receiving ashes can be difficult for some people.

Navigating the difficult road after the death of a loved one can be hard, which is why the entire team at Leo M. Bean And Sons Funeral Home is committed to creating a peaceful, streamlined environment. As a family-owned and -operated business that has been trusted for over 40 years, this Rochester, NY, funeral home makes it easy to plan meaningful memorial services. To find out more about cremation, visit their website or call (585)426-7830.