Cremation services in Walla Walla, WA, offer different types of cremation. Once you’ve decided to have one for yourself or a loved one, learning the differences between them will help you decide which one is right for you.
There are three main types of cremation:
- Traditional cremation
- Direct cremation
- Memorial service or Celebration of Life
Now, let’s see what each one works:
Traditional cremation
A traditional cremation has all the markings of a burial service, except the body doesn’t head to the cemetery.
There’s a wake or visitation, and the funeral service happens within days at a religious venue, like a church or chapel.
After completing the funeral rites, the body is transported to the crematory where the cremation begins. The funeral home delivers the ashes to the family when it’s complete.
Traditional cremation is the most expensive type of cremation because it is full-service. But it is a good compromise if you want the elaborate display of a traditional burial with cremation instead.
But if the cost is too high, you may consider direct cremation.
Direct cremation
In a direct cremation, you only have to pay for the cremation and admin fees like transportation and paperwork. It is a no service, no attendees cremation.
When the death occurs, and the arrangement is made, the funeral home collects the body, and it goes directly to the crematorium for the cremation to begin.
If there’s any service at all, it’s a short committal service by the family before the body leaves the hospital or home. There’s also no memorial service after the cremation.
And if you still want an event to honor the loss, you can organize something on your own after receiving the ashes. Most people go with a celebration of life or scattering ceremony, but there are less expensive alternatives like planting a memorial tree.
Cremation with a memorial service
Here, the arrangement is a blend of direct cremation and traditional cremation. The body goes directly to the crematory after death. No embalming or casket purchase is necessary. But there’s a funeral service after, with the urn or photo of the deceased as the focal point.
However, “after” does not necessarily mean immediately. Since there’s no body, it can happen when you’re ready, weeks or months after the cremation.
Cremation with a memorial service gives families room to plan a ceremony that best honors the deceased without the pressure of arranging it within a few days. It’s also more affordable than a traditional funeral.
Also, there’s more room for personalization. If you want even greater flexibility in the order of service, you can have a celebration of life instead. It’s a memorial service where families can pay their tributes in a more uniquely personal way.
The right type of cremation for you depends on the deceased wishes, budget, and whether you want a formal or informal service.
Reach out when you decide. We offer a range of cremation services in Walla Walla, WA, designed to give your loved one a befitting farewell. Call us now to speak with our funeral director or visit our location now if you're planning ahead.
