Post-Cremation Burials

Families across the country are choosing cremation over traditional burial due to flexible cremation options, inexpensive services, and environmental concerns. Compared to burial, cremation is a simple, dignified service that doesn’t require costly embalming services, caskets, or burial plots.

However, some families, especially those of Catholic faith, choose to combine cremation with burial of the cremated remains to get the best of both – low costs of cremation and a final resting place for family members to regularly visit.

What Happens During a Cremation Burial?

Before burial, the regular cremation process is completed. After the death certificate and cremation permit are obtained, the body of the deceased is taken to the cremation facility. The cremation takes a couple of hours, after which the cremated remains are returned to the family in a simple container or urn of their choosing.

The type of cremation urn depends on the final resting place. Decorative urns are typically used for internment in a columbarium or mausoleum, while biodegradable urns are a popular choice for in-ground burials.

Final Resting Places

Several options are available for families who choose cremation burials. These are the most popular final resting places for cremated remains:

  • Columbarium and Mausoleum Niches. A columbarium is an enclosed structure with carved niches that hold cremation urns; a mausoleum is a similar structure that features burial crypts or niches. Many cemeteries sell spaces in community columbaria or public mausoleums.
  • Scattering Gardens. Another popular choice is scattering ashes at a cemetery’s public scattering gardens. These scattering gardens are often elaborate and beautifully landscaped, featuring trees, flowers, a pond, waterfall, or other scenic views. Some cemeteries also provide a “living burial,” meaning that the cremated remains are used to grow a tree or other plant.
  • Cremation Benches and Statuary. Some families opt to have cremated remains incorporated into a functional memorial, such as a cement bench or statue on the cemetery grounds. Usually the name of the deceased and a memorial inscription is carved into the bench or statue to commemorate the departed.
  • Cremation Graves. Some cemeteries offer special burial plots for cremated remains. These plots are usually cheaper and smaller than traditional casket burial plots. Some families or couples choose shared burial plots that hold two or more cremation urns. Those concerned with the environmental impact of burial are able to select biodegradable urns or caskets.
  • Private Mausoleum or Burial Plot. Those who want an ultra-customized option for a final resting place go for private mausoleums or burials on private estates. Mausoleum construction companies, such as Forever Legacy, build custom private mausoleums in a variety of styles and also offer landscaping services. With a private structure, families are able to secure cremated remains with a security system and other modern technology.

To learn more about your cremation options, contact a Smart Cremation representative today: (503) 402-2578.

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Published On: July 28th, 2014Categories: Cremation Planning