What is Cremation?

Part of making funeral arrangements on behalf of a loved one involves choosing between burial or entombment of the body, or cremation. Certainly this is a big decision, based on any number of factors: religious or spiritual beliefs, finances, or ecological awareness are just some of the reasons we've heard for choosing cremation. Before you can make the choice, you need to know exactly what it is you're considering. You can learn the basics below, however, if the content here raises additional questions for you, please give us a call at 412-793-3000. One of our Funeral Directors will address any of your inquiries or concerns.

Cremation Explained

The Cremation Association of North America describes cremation as, "The mechanical and/or thermal or other dissolution process that reduces human remains to bone fragments".

What is Required to Arrange for Cremation?

Once the decision for cremation 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 and from the County Coroner or Medical Examiner. Once all authorization documents are signed, 24 hours from the time of death have elapsed and services arranged; the body can be transported to the crematory and the cremation process can take place. However, there are some additional things you may wish to consider, such as:

Is there a special set of clothes (such as a military uniform or favorite dress) your loved one would appreciate the thought of wearing? This will be a focus of the cremation arrangement conversation, and you will be advised by your funeral director as to your best options regarding jewelry or other valuable personal items.
Are there any keepsake items you'd like to include in their cremation casket? Perhaps there's a special memento, such as a treasured photograph or letter? We sometimes suggest family members write cards, notes or letters to their deceased loved one, and place them in the casket prior to the cremation.
Would you or other family members like to be present for–or participate to some degree in–your loved one's cremation? Because we know how healing it can be to take part in an act of "letting go", we welcome the opportunity to bring interested family or friends into the crematory. Please discuss your desire to participate with your funeral director.
What will you keep the cremated remains or ashes in after the cremation or the service? We offer a large selection of urns that will help memorialize your loved one. Ask one of our caring funeral director's to see the wide variety of urns.

We encourage open dialog about all end-of-life issues, and sincerely hope you reach out to us to discuss further the topics related to cremation and burial. Call us today at 412-793-3000 to ask a question or to set an appointment (either in your home or our office). We look forward to the conversation.

Sources:
What is Cremation, Cremation Association of North America