Countryside Funeral Home & Crematory

Cremation Explained

Part of making funeral arrangements on behalf of a loved one involves choosing between burial or cremation. Certainly this is an important decision, based on any number of factors: religious or spiritual beliefs, finances, or even environmental awareness. Before you can make the choice, you ought to know what it is you're considering. 

The Cremation Association of North America describes cremation as, "The thermal dissolution process that reduces human remains to fragments." 

People choose cremation over burial of casketed remains for any combination of reasons. Sometimes it's the simple fear of burial itself, which may stem directly from the Victorian phobia of being buried alive. 

What is Required to Arrange a Cremation?

Once the cremation decision has been made, all that's required is authorization. This is provided by the person who is the legally identified or appointed next-of-kin. Once all authorization documents are signed and service charges are paid, the body can be transported from the place of death to the crematory and the cremation process can take place. However, there are some additional questions you may want to consider:

  • Is there a special set of clothes your loved one would appreciate the thought of wearing? 
  • Are there any keepsakes you'd like to include in the cremation casket? Perhaps there's a special memento, such as a treasured photograph or letter? 
  • Would you or other family members like to be present for your loved one's cremation? Because we know how healing it can be to take part in an act of witnessing and "letting go," we are open to accommodating interested family or friends in the crematory. 
  • What will you keep the cremated remains or ashes in after the cremation or the service? We offer a selection of urns that will help memorialize your loved one. Ask one of our funeral director to show you our examples.

Why Choose Cremation

Everyone has their own personal reasons for choosing cremation over traditional casketed burial. The choice is entirely yours or that of your loved one if they clearly expressed his or her wishes. 

Cremation Costs are Only One Reason

Given the religious, ethnic, and regional diversity among us, there are many reasons for the dramatic rise in the number of cremations performed each year.

Cremation allows a family the flexibility they may need in planning and preparing for a memorial service, Celebration of Life, or a scattering ceremony. While the cremation process can occur almost immediately (once the proper paperwork is complete), the decisions required in planning a meaningful memorial service for a loved one can be made in a relaxed, rational way. Family from abroad can be consulted about their travel needs, time away from work and so on. 

Are You Ready to Talk about Cremation?

We want you to know that no matter your reasons for choosing cremation, we're here to help you explore your options. Call us to set an appointment or message us using the secure and confidential form below. 


Ask About Cremation

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