Direct Cremation

The high cost of funerals today, cause many families to plan a direct cremation for their loved one.  Many believe that if they choose this form of final disposition they will be unable to have any type of service or gathering. Direct cremation does not prevent families from carrying out traditions, ceremonies or rituals.  In fact, planning a cremation introduces family and friends to more options that might not be possible otherwise.  One of life’s most difficult challenges is losing someone you love.  We are pleased to present the many unique choices that are available to you and your family. 

Cremation Options would like to take a few moments of your time to help you more comfortably understand the cremation process.  Please discuss all of your decisions with all immediate family members because a direct cremation is an irreversible process.  When a loved one passes, the decedent is transferred directly to the crematory and placed in refrigeration until the cremation process begins.  Embalming is not required to proceed with cremation, therefore many families decide to have their loved one placed in refrigeration prior to cremation taking place.  If a cremation casket is not selected the decedent will be placed in an alternative container which is typically made of wood or cardboard.  By law, during a direct cremation, only one human body at a time may be cremated in a cremation chamber.  Cremation chambers accommodate one adult.  Heat (1500-2000 Degrees Fahrenheit), flame and evaporation will reduce the human remains in a period of 2-3 hours to bone fragments that resemble white or light gray sand and weigh about 3-9lbs.  Upon completion of the process, all fragments are drawn into a stainless steel cooling pan connected to the chamber.  Through magnets and visual inspection any remaining metal work (artificial joints, bridge work and metal from clothing) is then separated from the cremated remains.  (Dental work such as gold and silver are not recoverable and are commingled with the cremated remains.)  The cremated remains are then placed in a machine that will process them to a consistent size and place them inside of a cremation urn or temporary receptacle of the family’s choosing. (Note: Other then the microscopic particles which are impossible to remove from the chamber or processor; all the cremated remains are returned to the family).

Once direct cremation is completed, you must decide on the final resting place for your loved one.  You may want to have your loved one buried in a family cemetery plot or niche, scattered at sea or on land or keep them in your possession at home.  Planting a tree in remembrance of your loved one, placing a cemetery marker on the grave or keeping a decorative urn in your home, are permanent memorials which have important emotional value.  If you decide to have your loved one’s cremated remains scattered, you may want to keep a minute portion of the cremated remains and place them in a small keepsake urn for an everlasting memorial. 

Often people later regret the decision to plan a direct cremation without any form of ceremony because it deprives family and friends of closure. You may decide against having a viewing or traditional funeral but you can still allow family and friends to gather to share loving memories. Family and friends will find it rewarding to communicate their emotions through an intimate gathering to say their final fare-well.  Whether you plan a ceremony that is simple or elaborate, with or without the cremated remains present, you will be planning an everlasting tribute to your loved one that everyone who attends will look back upon warmly.

Making any kind of arrangements involves various difficult decisions and choices. Cremation costs for a direct cremation is approximately ¼ cost of a traditional burial.  This will relieve financial strain.  Being a national leader in the industry, we are able to offer you respectful and dignified services at the lowest possible price.  Our courteous staff will supervise, coordinate and prepare all arrangements that will personally suit your loved one.  Please don’t hesitate to contact our caring staff at any hour; we are available to properly guide you 24 hours a day.  For more information on a direct cremation please complete to contact us form and information will be sent to your home immediately.