If you're considering cremation for yourself or a loved one, you're not alone. More families are choosing cremation today than ever before, but it's natural to have questions about the process, the options available, and how it compares to traditional burial. At
Limestone Chapel of George Funeral Care, we believe that understanding your choices makes it easier to plan a meaningful farewell without the added stress of uncertainty.
Let's walk through some of the most common questions we hear from families in Bedford and the surrounding communities.
What Exactly Is the Cremation Process?
The cremation process is often misunderstood, and we find that once families understand what happens, they feel much more comfortable with their decision.
In simple terms, cremation uses high heat to reduce the body to bone fragments, which are then processed into what we commonly call "ashes" or "cremated remains." The entire process takes place in a specialized chamber called a cremation chamber or retort, and it typically takes two to three hours depending on several factors.
Here's what actually happens: The deceased is placed in a cremation container or casket designed for cremation. The container enters the chamber where temperatures reach between 1,400 and 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. After the process is complete, any metal objects like surgical implants or jewelry are removed, and the remaining bone fragments are processed into a fine, sand-like consistency.
One common misconception we'd like to clear up: the cremated remains you receive are not ashes in the traditional sense. They're actually pulverized bone fragments. Many families are surprised to learn this, but it's completely natural and dignified.
What Are My Cremation Options?
When most people think of cremation, they imagine a simple, no-frills process. But the truth is, you have just as many options to create a meaningful service with cremation as you would with a traditional burial.
Direct Cremation is the most straightforward and affordable option. With direct cremation, the body is cremated shortly after death without a formal viewing or ceremony beforehand. This doesn't mean you can't have a memorial service later—many families choose to hold a celebration of life weeks or even months after the cremation, giving them time to plan something truly special.
Cremation with a Memorial Service allows you to hold a service with the cremated remains present. You can display photos, share memories, and create a gathering that honors your loved one's life in a personal way. This option gives you flexibility in timing and location since you're not working around burial schedules.
Cremation with a Traditional Funeral Service includes a viewing or visitation before the cremation takes place. This option is perfect for families who want the opportunity to say goodbye in person but ultimately prefer cremation to burial. You can still have an open casket, flowers, and all the traditional elements of a funeral service.
Cremation with Witnessing is an option some families request for religious or personal reasons. This allows family members to be present at the beginning of the cremation process, providing a sense of closure and participation in the final goodbye.
Cremation vs. Burial: How Do I Decide?
This is perhaps the most personal decision you'll make, and there's no right or wrong answer. Both cremation and burial are dignified ways to lay a loved one to rest. Let's look at some factors that might influence your choice.
Cost considerations often play a significant role in the decision. Generally speaking, cremation is less expensive than traditional burial because it eliminates the need for a burial plot, grave liner, and headstone, though you can certainly choose to purchase these items if you wish. At Limestone Chapel, we're committed to providing quality services at affordable prices because we believe funerals should honor life, not create financial strain.
Flexibility is another advantage of cremation. With cremated remains, you have time to decide what you'd like to do. Some families choose to keep the remains in an urn at home, scatter them in a meaningful location, divide them among family members, or inter them in a cemetery or columbarium niche. You're not locked into an immediate decision about a final resting place.
Religious and cultural considerations matter deeply to many families. Some faiths have specific teachings about cremation, and it's worth exploring what your religious tradition says. We're always here to help you understand your options within the context of your beliefs.
Environmental impact is increasingly important to families. Cremation generally has a smaller environmental footprint than traditional burial, though green burial options are also available for those concerned about eco-friendly choices.
Family traditions often guide these decisions too. Some families have generations buried in family plots and want to continue that tradition, while others are starting new traditions that feel more aligned with their values.
What About Pricing?
We understand that cost is a real concern for families, and we appreciate when people ask direct questions about pricing. That's why we're transparent about our services.
Cremation costs can vary widely depending on the services you choose. A direct cremation is the most economical option, typically costing significantly less than a traditional funeral and burial. When you add services like a viewing, memorial service, or upgraded urn, the cost increases accordingly—but you're always in control of what you choose.
It's worth noting that cremation doesn't mean you have to sacrifice a meaningful tribute to your loved one. We've worked with countless families to create beautiful, heartfelt services that fit within their budget. Sometimes that means holding a simple graveside service, other times it's a celebration of life at a favorite park or restaurant.
If you're planning ahead for yourself, we can walk you through all the options and help you make decisions now that give you and your family peace of mind later. Pre-planning also locks in today's prices, protecting you from future cost increases.
Can I Still Have a "Traditional" Funeral with Cremation?
Absolutely. This is one of the biggest misconceptions about cremation—that choosing it means giving up traditional funeral elements. That's simply not true.
You can have a visitation where friends and family gather to pay their respects. You can have an open casket funeral service at our chapel or your place of worship. You can have flowers, music, eulogies, and all the meaningful rituals that help with grief and healing. The only difference is that cremation follows the service instead of burial.
Some families rent a casket for the viewing and service, then use a simpler cremation container for the actual cremation. This allows you to have the traditional funeral experience while still choosing cremation as the final disposition.
What Happens to the Cremated Remains?
Once the cremation is complete, the remains are returned to you in a temporary container or an urn of your choosing.
From there, you have many options:
You might choose to keep the urn in your home, perhaps displayed in a place of honor where you can feel close to your loved one. Many families find comfort in this choice, especially in the first months and years after a loss.
Scattering ashes in a meaningful location is popular, whether that's a favorite fishing spot, a beloved garden, or a place that held special significance. Just be sure to check local regulations—some areas have restrictions on where you can scatter remains.
Burial in a cemetery plot or interment in a columbarium niche provides a permanent memorial site where family and friends can visit. This option combines the benefits of cremation with a traditional memorial location.
Some families divide the remains among family members, using small keepsake urns or memorial jewelry. This allows multiple people to keep a physical connection to their loved one.
Common Cremation Myths We'd Like to Clear Up
Myth: Cremation is against most religions.
While some faiths traditionally discouraged cremation, many major religions now accept it. The Catholic Church lifted its ban in 1963, and many Protestant, Jewish, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions embrace cremation. If you have concerns, we encourage you to speak with your religious leader.
Myth: You can't have a viewing with cremation.
As we mentioned earlier, you can absolutely have a viewing or visitation before cremation. This is a common choice for families who want that opportunity to say goodbye.
Myth: You have to decide immediately what to do with the remains.
Not true. Many families take weeks, months, or even longer to decide on a final resting place. There's no rush.
Myth: All cremations are the same. The cremation process itself is standardized and dignified, but the services surrounding cremation can be completely customized to reflect your loved one's unique life and your family's wishes.
How We Can Help You Make the Right Choice
At Limestone Chapel of George Funeral Care, we're here to take the burden off your shoulders and help you begin the healing process. Whether you're planning in advance or you've recently lost a loved one, we invite you to reach out with any questions.
Derek and Abby George, along with their team, bring nearly a decade of experience in the death care industry to our community. As Bedford's only fully locally and funeral director owned and operated funeral home, we're your neighbors—lifelong residents who understand this community and care deeply about the families we serve.
Planning a funeral is an emotional and sometimes overwhelming thing, and having the right information can make things easier. We're here for every step of the way, whether you're exploring your options, comparing costs, or simply need someone to talk through your questions and concerns.
Every life is unique, and every service should be as well. Whatever you decide about
cremation, burial, or any other aspect of funeral planning, we're committed to creating lasting memories that honor the uniqueness of each individual's life—without creating financial strain.
If you have questions about cremation or would like to discuss your options, please give us a call or stop by. We welcome any questions you have because we know that understanding your choices brings peace of mind during a difficult time.
