One of the most-common questions we receive is, “What is direct cremation?” This is generally followed by “What are direct cremation costs?” This post explains the differences between direct cremation and traditional cremation to help you make an informed decision on end-of-life options.
Direct Cremation
Those who say, “When I die, I just want to be cremated. That’s it,” are likely referring to a direct cremation.
Direct cremation is a funeral term sometimes referred to as a “no ceremony cremation”, “a basic cremation” or “a simple cremation.” It’s the final disposition of a body performed soon after a death either at a crematory or a funeral home that houses its own crematorium.
Cremation Society of New Hampshire offers a direct cremation package that includes everything required legally for a cremation. It does not include an urn, which can be purchased via our website. With a direct cremation, you can make your wishes known about what should happen with your remains. It is still very common to have cremated remains scattered according to the deceased wishes.
Reasons to consider a direct cremation:
- It is generally the least-expensive cremation option.
- A body is generally cremated in a simple container and a casket is not needed.
- The body does not need embalming if there will be no wake or visitation service prior to cremation.
- Sometimes, a cemetery and headstone are not part of cremation, as cremated remains stay with family members or friends.
- There’s less transportation of the body as it only needs to be delivered to the crematorium.
Yes, you can have a memorial service with cremation
A direct cremation without a service at a funeral home or place of worship is a popular option for those who prefer to have a private memorial service at home. Having a service in a chapel or place of worship is considered a traditional cremation service.
Traditional cremation options include:
- A visitation at your place of worship prior to the service
- The full service held at your church or place of worship
- The use of a hearse and/or limousine for loved ones or pallbearers
- A chapel funeral service
- Assistance in finding a religious officiant or an officiant for a humanist service
- Options for a cremation urn
- A customized memorial record packages
- A custom designed floral selection
- Obituary placement in local or national newspapers and online
For service veterans, we offer a package that includes all services associated with the cremation. That also includes a veteran’s urn that bears the military branch insignia and a U.S. flag in a weatherproof case. You can also have a cemetery committal service.
Cremation is growing in America, with nearly 80% of New Hampshire residents choosing cremation instead of a traditional funeral service. Understanding cremating facts, trends and pricing will help families and individuals make the end-of-life decisions that meet their needs.
This blog post answers the following questions:
What is direct cremation?
Direct cremation is a term sometimes referred to as a “no ceremony cremation”, “a basic cremation” or “a simple cremation.” It’s the final disposition of a body performed soon after a death either at a crematory or a funeral home that houses its own crematorium.
What are the differences between direct cremation and traditional cremation?
A direct cremation without a service at a funeral home or place of worship is a popular option for those who prefer to have a private memorial service at home. Having a service in a chapel or place of worship is considered a traditional cremation service.
What is the cost of direct cremation?
Direct cremation is the least-expensive cremation option, because:
A body is generally cremated in a simple container and a casket is not needed.
The body does not need embalming if there will be no wake or visitation service prior to cremation.
Sometimes, a cemetery and headstone are not part of cremation, as cremated remains stay with family members or friends.
There’s less transportation of the body as it only needs to be delivered to the crematorium.
Don’t be scared. We have a guide for you:
Everything You Wanted to Know About Cremation (But Were Afraid to Ask)
