The choice of cremation is a popular and recognized option. For some, the choice of cremation allows for more flexibility when planning services. For others, it‘s because of their concern for the environment and not wanting to take up space in the earth. Whatever your reason, the choice of cremation is a personal one and the staff at Hathaway Family Funeral Homes is here to provide a heartfelt and meaningful service. 

Cremation and Funerals 
There is sometimes a misconception that a funeral service cannot take place when cremation is chosen. In fact, a funeral service can take place and there are several options to consider. A funeral can occur before the cremation process, a funeral can also take place after the cremation process with the cremated remains present, or a funeral can occur without anybody present. Funeral services can range from elaborate to simple, traditional to non-traditional and are personalized to reflect the life of the deceased. Following the viewing, service or ceremony, and eventual cremation, the cremated remains can be buried, properly scattered or returned to the family for safe keeping. 

Immediate Cremation 
Immediate Cremation, sometimes called Direct Cremation, is when the body of the deceased is cremated in the days immediately following a death, without any funeral or memorial service beforehand. Families can plan to have services after cremation if they choose.  

The services provided by Hathaway Family Funeral Homes are the removal and transportation of the deceased into our care. We also gather the necessary permits and authorization for cremation and work directly with the medical examiner. We can also guide you through the options available when it comes to choosing urns and containers for your loved one’s ashes.   

At Hathaway Family Funeral Homes, we recommend that if you select an immediate cremation that you privately view the body as a family. Viewing of the deceased is a very important step in acknowledging that the death has occurred. If the viewing can be done in a matter of a few hours after the death, then embalming will not be necessary. If there is a longer delay (more than 8-12 hours) then embalming would be encouraged. If the viewing cannot be done within 48 hours, then embalming may be required.  

Memorialization Options for Cremation 
Memorialization provides a permanent, secure place for cremated remains to be placed, and for family members and friends to honor the lives of the deceased. Cremation allows families many choices for memorializing a loved one. Some of these options include:  

• Outdoor Niches - The cremated remains of your loved one may be safely held in one of our many above ground columbarium niches. 
  
• Scattering - Your loved one’s remains may be scattered freely within a dedicated, natural environment. There are also certain services which offer to scatter among the sea or the stars. 
  
• Traditional Burial - Cremated remains placed in a burial urn, may be buried at the head or foot of a grave site. 
  
• Personalized Memorialization - There are so many ways to personalize a loved one's memorialization. For example, placing your loved one's name with a special saying on a tree plaque or park bench. We also have custom, unique urns and keepsakes, perfect for displaying inside your home.

Interested in learning more about preplanning a cremation and funeral or memorial service? Learn more and contact us to start a conversation.