Choosing The Right Funeral Home

When It's Time To Say Goodbye: Four Options For The Ashes Of Your Loved One

30 September 2016

Derek Murphy

As of 2015, approximately 48.6 percent of deceased individuals are cremated. Thanks to the affordable cost and friendliness to the environment, more and more people choose cremation over a traditional burial. One problem remains after someone is cremated: what should be done with the ashes? Though the traditional urn is a common choice, there are other options. Explore these popular alternatives to find your loved one's final resting place.

1. Scatter the Ashes

Some choose to scatter the ashes of their loved one in a place that was meaningful during life. The ocean, a special garden, or beloved park are all common places individuals decide to spread ashes.

Before spreading ashes, make sure there are no laws or regulations that prohibit you from doing so. Also, make sure to tell family and friends where the ashes were scattered, so they can visit the special place.

2. Bury the Ashes

If you like the idea of having a designated spot to remember the deceased, you can have the ashes buried in a cemetery. The plot is much smaller and generally cheaper than a conventionally-sized alternative. However, the cost to have a grave marker constructed can be pricey.

Some people explicitly convey that they wish to be cremated. By burying the ashes, you follow your loved one's wishes without sacrificing your ability to have a place to visit and bring flowers.

3. House the Ashes in a Columbarium

A columbarium is a spot designed to house urns. There are plaques that specify whose ashes are housed in the columbarium. This option is cheaper than burying the ashes of the deceased, but it still provides a place of remembrance for friends and family.

Some graveyards separate the ashes, while others put them together in the same spot. Make sure to understand how the ashes are handled so that you pick an option you are comfortable with.

4. Keep the Ashes with You

It is not uncommon for individuals to be comforted by the thought that they will always have their loved ones with them. One possibility is to pick a piece of jewelry to house the ashes. Another idea is to have the ashes mixed with concrete. A monument is then constructed from the concrete.

An advantage of this choice is that it enables multiple family members to have a portion of the ashes.

After cremation, you need to house the ashes of your loved one. Instead of a conventional urn, consider one of these less conventional alternatives. By researching the possibilities, you can pick a method that best suits your needs and the preferences of the deceased.

For more information, contact Holmes Funeral Home or a similar location.

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