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Frequently Asked Questions
"What options are available when
choosing cremation?"
There are several options for you to consider when cremation is your choice. The first is to determine what type of funeral or memorial service is desired and whether it should be held before or after the cremation.
Once you know what type of service you wish to have, you have choices regarding a visitation. You may not wish to have a visitation of any kind. Many families find a visitation very comforting, as it provides a time for family and friends to gather together. If you have the visitation before cremation, you may choose one with an open casket.
If you prefer to have a funeral or memorial service after cremation -- an option here is to have the cremated remains present in an urn or other special container. At Gately Funeral Home, we have a beautiful solid cherry, glass enclosed ark display to hold the cremated remains during visitation and church services. Many have commented that the ark brings dignity to cremation.
Many families choose to preserve their loved one's remains in an urn to keep at home and pass down to the next generation. Others want to bury the remains and some elect to spread the ashes in a special place that may be particularly meaningful. Still others elect to use a biodegradable urn that can be placed in water. There may be laws that govern where, how, and when remains can be spread, so this option needs further consideration.
In the recent past, other options have become available after cremation. One is to place a small amount of the remains in a piece of "memory" jewelry. A pendant or ring with a small opening is used to hold the ashes and can be worn by a family member.
One of the important things to remember is that choosing cremation does not limit your ceremonial choices in any way. In fact, many families choose to have a traditional visitation before cremation. Having the deceased's body present gives a sense of acceptance and closure and provides a way for the family to have a memorable final farewell.
Visitation and a church service followed by the burial of the urn at the cemetery avoid a delay in the interment of cremains. Many cemeteries in the area will allow urns to be interred in family lots that are full due to casketed burials. Wyoming Cemetery in Melrose allows one casket and three urns in each grave.
If you or a family member is considering cremation, you should be sure to write down your instructions in detail. A funeral director will be able to guide you through your options so your final wishes will be followed.
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