Understanding the Cremation Process and Cremation Services

Cremation is an increasingly common choice. When you choose cremation for yourself or a loved one, you have many options for commemorating a loved one. The type of service, cemetery property and cremation memorialization items such as urns and keepsake jewellery can all be customized to suit your needs.

 

Maybe you are wondering how cremation works. If so, you are not alone. Many people are unfamiliar with the cremation process but would like to consider this alternative to traditional burial.

Our compassionate experts can walk you through every step of the cremation process, including the care for and preparation of the body (which varies depending on religious requirements and type of service chosen), planning a unique funeral or memorial service that reflects the individual, choosing a burial option and selecting family keepsakes. We offer cremation packages to fit your family tradition, personal wishes and budget.

 

Ready to get started?

Speak with a Dignity Memorial planning advisor today.

A cremation garden with beveled memorial niches.

Cemetery property for cremation

Though many people want their cremated remains (or "ashes") to be scattered in a personally meaningful place, and some families keep ashes at home, more and more people are finding that a designated place in a cemetery is a lasting alternative to help bring healing and lasting remembrance. Cremation cemetery options include in-ground urn burial, mausoleum entombment, cremation niches, cremation benches and pedestals, columbaria and scattering gardens.


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White paper lanterns hang from the trees.

Cremation providers near you

If you are interested in cremation but are not sure where to go, our location search allows you to find caring and reputable cremation providers in your area. Some funeral homes and mortuaries have on-site crematories, but even those that do not can arrange a cremation in your area.


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Guests toast to a loved one at an outdoor celebration with an urn, candle and flowers in the foreground.

Cremation memorial services

A cremation funeral can be a traditional ceremony or a celebration of life. It can take place before or after a cremation. Let us help you plan.


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A cremation memorial designed as a bench allows a place for visitors to rest and reflect at Pacific View Memorial Park.

Cremation burial

If you’re interested in establishing a permanent place of remembrance for your loved one’s cremated remains, there are a number of options for the interment of ashes after someone you love passes away.


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English Consumer Cremation Guide - Pencil

Plan a memorable cremation funeral

Planning a personalized cremation funeral or memorial is an event unlike any other. We created a guide to help you understand all of your cremation options and how to plan a truly memorable event. A Guide for Families Choosing Cremation is free, and it will help you start planning today. Then, when you are ready, a Dignity Memorial provider will be there to walk you through every step of the cremation process.

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Urn outside on table with flowers around it

Cremation urns and containers

A cremation urn or container can reflect the personality of you or your loved one and can be personalized in a number of ways. Our guide gives you options and ideas.

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An immaculate community garden of ornate benches with fountains in the background. The memorial bench is adorned with tulips.

Which to choose: Cremation or burial?

Why would someone choose cremation over casket burial? Learn more about the two traditions so you can make an informed decision.

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Purple flowers in glass vase, representing the Compassion Helpline

What to do when someone close to you dies

The period of time right after someone dies can be difficult and confusing. Grief can be overwhelming. Let us guide you with compassion every step of the way.

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Timeless Touch fingerprint memorial pendant with chain  in silver.

Cremation keepsakes and jewelry

From simple necklaces to exquisite rings, let us create timeless keepsake jewelry that incorporates a loved one’s cremated remains.

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Additional cremation resources you might be interested in

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Have questions?

A Dignity Memorial provider is only a phone call away. Contact us at anytime.

CALL 1-800-343-4464

Cremation memorials to remember

Understanding Cremation—A Complete Guide walks you through the many options available and helps you plan an event like no other.

GET THE GUIDE