Cremation, Burial, and Green Alternatives
We know losing a loved one can be an overwhelmingly emotional experience. If decisions surrounding their final disposition haven’t already been made, that can add another layer of difficulty to an already stressful time. SendOff will help guide you in the decision-making process and provide you with the information you need to feel good about your choices.
When choosing a final disposition, you’ll want to consider the cultural, spiritual, or religious rules you follow, environmental impact, your budget, and whether permanent memorialization or a place to visit is important to you. Understanding your options can provide comfort and help you make decisions with confidence.
Contact SendOff
If you have questions about burial or cremation options (including earth-friendly alternatives), or you simply want to learn more about SendOff, schedule a 30-minute phone conversation with our staff.
Cremation
Cremation rates continue to rise across the country, driven by environmental concerns and cost considerations. We’ll provide you with information on both cremation by fire and cremation by water, as well as ideas for what to do with your loved one’s cremated remains. Learn more about our cremation services (including aquamation).
Traditional Burial
A traditional burial generally includes the purchase of a full-size plot at a cemetery, a grave liner or vault, a memorial stone, and casket. You may want to host a viewing and/or conclude the funeral ceremony at a graveside service with close friends and family. Learn more about our traditional burial services.
Green Burial
Green burials (also called natural burials) are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial practices. If you plan to purchase a burial plot in advance, it’s important to know if your preferred cemetery allows this alternative burial option. Learn more about our green burial services.
What if the Deceased Didn’t Make Their Wishes Known?
If your loved one didn't express their wishes or document them in any way, consider the following:
Their religious affiliation and practices
Specific comments about burial or cremation preferences (e.g. “Bury me in this outfit.” or “Put this on my gravestone.”)
Mention of a preferred cemetery or burial alongside family members
Your family's desire to visit a specific location
Type of disposition that will bring you and your family the greatest amount of peace
Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind
Ensuring your end-of-life wishes are documented in a legal, notarized document gives you peace of mind and can reduce the amount of stress your family experiences as they grieve your loss. Once documented, share them with your family or the person who will be responsible for planning your funeral arrangements. If you’re looking for support, SendOff can guide you through the pre-planning process and connect you with the necessary resources to ensure your documents are in the right hands.
If you’ve experienced a death and require immediate support, or you want to start the conversation on pre-planning, contact SendOff now.