Where to Begin When Planning a Cremation
Planning a service for a loved one can be a difficult experience. It means dealing with grief as well as with the financial strain of a funeral. For many people, cremation is the option that they feel is most appropriate for a loved one. Planning for a cremation service can be just as overwhelming as planning a burial, however, so it helps to know where to begin the process.
Speak with Family
The most important step when planning a cremation is to ensure that everyone in the family agrees to it. If the wishes of the deceased are not in writing, then it is vital to get all signatures from the next of kin before the cremation can take place. Usually this means the spouse of the deceased or his or her children.
Choose a Funeral Home
The next step in the process is to decide on the funeral home that will take care of the cremation. This can be a tricky step, since there are so many options available. In Voorheesville, NY, cremation services are available in all funeral homes for varying rates. Depending on the budget the family has, one service might be better than another. It is important to do some research and take a couple of days to find the right funeral home before making a final decision.
Service or Not?
Some people choose not to have a service before a cremation, while others want a traditional memorial. The right path can depend on the kind of budget available, but it is always a good idea to have some kind of service. It allows people to say goodbye to their loved one and to get closure. The right funeral home will make it easy to plan a memorial service that can bring comfort to those left behind.
What to Do with Remains
It is also important to know beforehand what the family wants to do with the remains. There are lots of options these days. There are even “green” urns that are completely biodegradable, allowing for a water burial. There are also options in cemeteries, where the ashes can be buried or scattered. This is a crucial thing to consider, so keep it in mind when beginning the planning of a cremation. Take stock of what the rest of the family would prefer if the deceased did not leave in writing what he or she wanted done.
All of these steps are crucial when planning a cremation for a loved one. Careful planning can take away most of the stress, allowing people to focus on their grief and healing. If the deceased did not leave instructions in writing, the best thing to do is to sit with the family and see what the options are. This can help everyone come up with the right way to honor the loved one. To get started, contact McVeigh Funeral Home, Inc. at 208 N Allen St, Albany, NY 12206 by calling (518) 489-0188 right now!
