Cremation Choices

Cremation Service Options

When you choose cremation, you still have many meaningful ways to honor a life — before or after the cremation takes place. Whether you prefer a traditional ceremony or something more simple and personal, our experienced funeral and cremation professionals are here to guide you through every option. Together, we’ll help you create a service that reflects your family’s values, wishes, and unique circumstances.

Below are some of the most common cremation service choices.

Traditional Cremation

This option closely mirrors a traditional burial service. Visitation and a funeral ceremony are held with your loved one present, followed by cremation instead of burial. Families may choose either a cremation casket, designed specifically for this purpose, or a rental casket.

Cremation with Memorial Gathering

A memorial gathering allows family and friends to come together without the remains present. An urn may be displayed, but it is not required. Many families personalize the space with photographs, keepsakes, and meaningful mementos, and a memorial video can be created to celebrate your loved one’s life.

Cremation with Memorial Ceremony

This option includes a formal ceremony led by a religious or non-religious officiant. The service may feature music, scripture, poetry, readings, or personal reflections. The urn may be present, offering a focal point for remembrance.

Memorial Mass

For Catholic families, a Memorial Mass may be celebrated in your parish church. In accordance with church guidelines, the urn may be present during the service.

Direct Cremation

Direct cremation is the most basic cremation option, with no visitation or formal ceremony at the time of cremation. Families often choose to hold a memorial service or celebration of life later at a church, park, home, or other meaningful location.

Graveside or Columbarium Committal

A committal service is typically a smaller, more intimate gathering of close family and friends. During this service, the urn is buried or placed in a columbarium niche, offering a quiet and meaningful moment of final placement.

Scattering Ceremony

For families who choose to scatter cremated remains, a ceremony may be held on land or on the water—such as at sea, on a river, or at a lake. Specially designed scattering urns are available to support this heartfelt farewell.

To learn more, we invite you to visit our Frequently Asked Questions about Traditional Cremation and our FAQs about Flameless Cremation. You may also find inspiration on our Honoring a Unique Life page, where we share ideas for personalizing services in meaningful ways.

If you have questions or would like guidance, our staff is always here to help.