Cremation refers to a specific way of a treating loved one after death. Common alternatives to cremation are embalming and refrigeration. Selecting cremation as a form of disposition does not necessarily mean that there is, or is not, a memorial service, newspaper obituary, burial, or entombment. When we think of cremation, it is just one piece of a complete final arrangement that best honors and memorializes the life of a loved one. Cremation services can include a deeply personalized service wherein family, friends and the entire community of mourners comfort each other and remember their loved one.
In general, there are three types of cremation services:
A Traditional Funeral Service Followed By A Cremation
In this case, a traditional funeral is held prior to the cremation being performed. The funeral services can include a visitation or religious service during which eulogies, remembrances, and prayers can be offered. Only after the funeral service has taken place is the cremation is performed.
In the days following the cremation the loved ones cremated remains can be buried, entombed, or returned to the next of kin. Options for cemetery burial, inurnment, and entombment of cremated remains may vary by cemetery location. For more information about cemetery options for cremated remains, read the cemetery.com article here.
A Memorial Service
A memorial service is akin to a funeral service that occurs after the cremation has taken place. A memorial service can occur with, or without, the loved ones cremated remains present.
Like a traditional funeral service, a memorial service can be held in a funeral home, a place of worship, at the graveside. Unlike a traditional funeral service, a memorial service can also be held in a recaption hall, restaurant, or in the home.
Following the memorial service, the loved ones cremated remains can be buried, entombed, or returned to the next of kin. For more information about cemetery options for cremated remains, read the cemetery.com article here.
A Direct Cremation
A direct cremation is the simplest and most basic type of cremation service. When a direct cremation is performed the body is cremated immediately after removal from the place of death. With direct cremation there are no additional funeral or memorial services.