What is a Cremation Only Funeral?

In recent years, direct cremation has become an increasingly popular choice for end-of-life arrangements. As a result, there has been a rise in cremation-only funerals.

While traditional funerals often involve embalming, a viewing, and burial, cremation-only funerals offer a different approach, focusing solely on the cremation process and subsequent memorial service.

In this blog post, we'll delve into what exactly a cremation-only funeral entails and explore its significance for those seeking a more personalised and eco-friendlier farewell.

Understanding Cremation-Only Funerals

A cremation-only funeral, much like its name suggests, is a service where the deceased's body is respectfully cremated without prior embalming or viewing. Instead of a traditional burial, the remains are cremated, and a memorial service or celebration of life is held afterward.

This approach provides families with flexibility in planning and allows them to tailor the service to reflect the life and values of their loved one. In the UK, cremation is a widely accepted and regulated practice, adhering to strict standards to ensure dignity and respect for the deceased.

Benefits of Choosing a Cremation-Only Funeral

1. Personalisation: Cremation-only funerals offer families the opportunity to customise the memorial service according to the wishes of the deceased and their loved ones. Whether it's a simple gathering or a more elaborate ceremony, the focus remains on honouring the unique life and legacy of the departed.
2. Flexibility: Unlike traditional funerals, which may have strict timelines due to embalming requirements, cremation-only services provide greater flexibility in scheduling. Families can choose a date and time that best suits their needs and preferences, allowing for a more meaningful and stress-free experience.
3. Environmental Considerations: Cremation is often perceived as a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional burial, as it eliminates the need for embalming fluids, caskets, and cemetery plots. For individuals and families concerned about reducing their ecological footprint, cremation can be a fitting choice that aligns with their values.
4. Cost-Effective: Cremation-only funerals tend to be more cost-effective than traditional burials. Without the expenses associated with embalming, caskets, and burial plots, families can save significantly on funeral costs, making it a practical option for many households.

Honouring a Loved One's Wishes

For many families, honouring the wishes of their loved ones is paramount when planning end-of-life arrangements. Whether someone has expressed a preference for direct cremation, or their religious or cultural beliefs align with this practice, a cremation-only funeral can serve as a meaningful way to honour their wishes and celebrate their life in a manner that is authentic and respectful.

How does our Direct Cremation Works?

Celebration of Life offers a seamless and compassionate process for families during their time of loss. With our 24-hour urgent care service, families can reach out in advance to provide necessary information, alleviating concerns when the time arrives.

Our dedicated team will collect the deceased from anywhere in mainland Great Britain, ensuring respectful transport to our mortuary facilities. From there, we handle all aspects of the direct cremation process, including the removal of artificial devices and paperwork, at our trusted partner crematorium. 

Within 21 days of the cremation, we contact the family to arrange the return of ashes at a location of their choosing or offer the option to scatter them at the crematorium's garden of remembrance.

With these practicalities managed, loved ones are free to gather at their convenience to celebrate the life lived, surrounded by those who matter most.

Talk to Celebration of Life to Arrange a Direct Cremation

If you're interested in arranging a direct cremation or exploring various options, please don't hesitate to reach out to our expert team. We are at your service whenever you require assistance and are more than happy to help.