Do People Still Have a Funeral Service If They Are Cremated?
- Rented caskets allow viewings before cremations.PhotoObjects.net/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
Traditional funeral activities, such as viewings, funeral home visitations and memorial services, can be conducted prior to cremations. Funeral homes offer rented caskets for this purpose to save the costs of permanent purchases. Caskets are also available that are intended to be cremated with bodies. The decedent can be cremated following traditional funeral arrangements. - Church services can take place after cremations.Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
A memorial service after cremation is also possible. Services can occur at a funeral home or at a place of worship. These events generally entail eulogies, prayers, photo boards and memorabilia of the decedent. The urn holding the remains can be present at the service. A funeral home can also accommodate customary visitation despite the absence of a body. - A social gathering lends support to grieving families.Thomas Jackson/Lifesize/Getty Images
Some cremations are followed by a convening of family and friends. Such events customarily entail food and beverages for the attendees. They are commonly held at private homes, restaurants, catering or church halls. The urn holding the decedent's remains may or may not be present. The general purpose of a post-cremation gathering is to offer support for those mourning and celebrate the life of the decedent. - Sprinkling one's ashes in a peaceful place is a common choice.Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
Sometimes a cremation is performed so a decedent's ashes can be spread in a favorite place. Others choose to permanently keep a loved one's urn and ashes. Dividing remains in smaller memorial urns and sharing them with close family and friends is also an option.
