Is it Possible to Hold a Traditional Funeral Prior to Cremation Services?

Many people are used to the idea that a traditional funeral is followed by an earth burial at a cemetery. However, things are beginning to change. People are realizing that they don’t have to stick to the same traditional arrangements, and they’re starting to make plans that fit their family and situation better instead. They’re looking to providers of cremation services near LaGrange, IL, to help them with all the different options that are out there now.   

Cremation has become more and more popular in recent years, and there are many reasons why. A big reason is the lower cost compared to traditional burial. Another reason is because it is more eco-friendly than traditional burial as well. However, having a traditional funeral is still important for many families. It’s an essential part of the grieving process, and it gives family and friends a chance to say goodbye and begin to accept their loss.   

If you choose to go with a direct cremation company for your loved one’s cremation services, they may not have their own funeral home for you to use. However, they likely have close relationships with local funeral homes that they will be happy to connect you with. That way, you can get together with them to plan the services you want. You’ll need to decide certain things, like whether you want to hold a visitation or viewing prior to the funeral. If you want to hold a viewing, you will still need to pay for embalming, and you’ll likely need to rent a casket for the duration of the services. You’ll have to decide who you want to officiate the services, and who you’d prefer to deliver the eulogy.   

After the funeral services are over, rather than transporting the casket to the cemetery for burial, your loved one’s body will be taken to the cremation services provider immediately. Afterwards, their remains will be returned to you in the form of bone ashes, which will be held in a temporary urn. You will have the option of purchasing a permanent urn, and you can look through keepsake items for other family members as well. You may choose to keep your loved one’s remains in your home on display, or you might choose to have them interred in a niche at a columbarium. Many people also spread their loved one’s ashes in a meaningful location.   

The options for final arrangements are becoming more and more flexible, and people are taking advantage of that. It provides a way for many different families in different situations to form a preplan that fits their loved one’s wishes best. Many people associate cremation services near LaGrange, IL, with either direct cremation, or with having a memorial service afterward. However, it’s completely possible to hold a traditional funeral and viewing prior to cremation. Be sure to speak with your funeral home and cremation services provider to come up with a fitting arrangement for your loved one’s final services. That way, you can be at peace knowing your loved one’s wishes were carried out. We are here to help.