Direct Cremations: Make Sure Your Family Knows What to Expect

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Some people might find it satisfying to plan the details of their own funeral — content in the knowledge that their final farewell will take place exactly according to their wishes. But maybe you don't care that much about the specifics of your funeral and whether you're then buried or cremated. If anything, you want it to happen as inexpensively as possible, and with the minimum amount of fuss. Perhaps a direct cremation will be the most suitable option for your needs.

Without Delay

A direct cremation is when someone's remains are transported from the place of death to the crematory and cremated without delay. The only conceivable delay is when the details of the death might warrant investigation, meaning that certain checks must be made before a death certificate is issued. Barring these unforeseen circumstances, a direct cremation can often take place on the same day as death.

Quick and Efficient

Because the process can be extremely quick and efficient, it might be a shock to family members to learn that not only has a loved one passed away, but they have in fact already been cremated with no mourners in attendance (which is typical for a direct cremation). In addition to making the logistical arrangements for direct cremation, it's essential to inform your family (next of kin) about your plans, sparing them a potentially unpleasant surprise when the time comes.

Funeral Plans

Some family members might be distressed at the prospect of a direct cremation. After all, they might have wanted to hold a formal, attended funeral service for you. Since a direct cremation happens so promptly, they're not held in conjunction with a traditional funeral. While you might want to be cremated with a minimum of fuss, you don't want to rob your family of the opportunity to bid you a proper goodbye.

Informal Memorial Service

A service in your honor is still possible with a direct cremation, however it will take place after the cremation has been completed and your family has been presented with your cremated remains in an urn. The service won't be a formal funeral as such, although a memorial church service is possible, depending on your beliefs. In many cases, the memorial service is less formal and can be a celebration of life held in someone's home. 

A direct cremation can be followed by a memorial service, giving your family and friends the chance to say goodbye — honoring your wishes, along with their needs. Talk to a funeral home, such as Fletcher Funeral Home PA, if you are interested in cremation.

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22 July 2021

Understanding The Funeral Planning Process

Hi everyone, my name is Sari Blakenship. My first time visiting a funeral home was an extremely comforting experience. Although I was blindsided by the death of my loved one, the funeral director helped me through the planning process without taking advantage of my grief. I was allowed to work at my own pace to cope with the grief in a healthy way. I was never rushed or pressured, despite the necessary timeline. Whenever I couldn't move forward, the funeral director held my hand and offered words of comfort. I would like to share each step of the funeral planning process to help others through this difficult process. Planning a funeral takes a lot of thought and time during a particularly difficult period. Please visit whenever you need a hand.