You might be sad to only learn of a family member's chosen method of final disposition (what they want to happen to their body) after it has taken place. You may feel that you have been excluded, or denied an opportunity to participate in their final plans. But this may be precisely what happens when someone has clearly stipulated that they want direct cremation—which happens almost directly after someone passes away. How does this form of cremation affect any funeral plans? 

Low-Profile

Direct cremation is a subdued, low-profile form of final disposition. When someone has made these arrangements ahead of time, it usually falls to their next of kin to set events in motion. Once a death certificate has been issued, and the county has released a cremation permit, the remains can be transported to the crematory. 

Quickly and Efficiently

This series of events can unfold quite quickly. A fairly unceremonious final disposition is what your family member wanted, and the goal is for it all to take place quickly and efficiently. Generally speaking, only the next of kin is informed, and while the obligation then falls upon them to inform other family and friends, it may not necessarily be possible to do so in a timely manner before the cremation.

Standard Process

Aside from the relative briskness of proceedings, the cremation itself is perfectly standard. Your family member is handled with respect and dignity, and once the cremation has been completed, the next of kin will be presented with an urn or other receptacle containing the cremated ashes.

Last Wishes

This type of cremation removes the chance to hold a traditional funeral prior to final disposition. This is why some family members who are not immediate legal next of kin, perhaps such as yourself, can feel that they were somehow excluded. Please remember that the relatively fast pace of proceedings from death to final disposition is keeping with your family member's last wishes. Although a typical funeral may not be possible, there are ways to properly commemorate your loved one.

Memorial Service

Unless your family member clearly stipulated that there was to be no service, you could have a conversation with other family members about holding a memorial service. The urn with the cremated remains of your loved one can be on display, taking the place of a casket. Such a service can be formal, and even religious, or a relaxed and casual celebration of life. 

A family member's chosen method of final disposition could be a surprise, but remember that direct cremation was their choice, and doesn't prevent you from celebrating their life.

Contact a local cremation service, such as Simple Choices Inc., to learn more. 

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