Cremation Services

Cremation is an alternative to the burial process and it is chosen by many people because of religious beliefs, the desire to preserve the environment or it was requested by the person who passed.  Cremation is also a less expensive option in comparison to a burial.   The cremated remains of an average adult body will weigh about 7-8 pounds.  Cremation is not an alternative to a funeral, but rather an alternative to burial or other forms of disposition.

If your loved one is cremated, they then can be scattered or buried, or they may be kept with the family in a decorative urn or jewelry keepsake.  There are many new and different alternatives: cremated remains can be placed in an artificial coral reef in the ocean, they can be launched into space or sent up in helium balloons, made into a custom work of art, or they can be spun into glass pieces or diamonds.

You also have the option of having a full service prior to cremation where everything is done just like a traditional funeral. The only difference is instead of going to the cemetery, you are cremated and returned to your family.

FAQS

What is Cremation?

Cremation is the process of reduction using high heat and flame.  Cremation is not the final disposition of the remains, nor is it a type of funeral service.

Is a casket needed for Cremation?

No, a casket is not required, most states require an alternative container constructed of wood or cardboard, however, in some states no container is required.

Is embalming required prior to cremation?

No.  In fact it is against the law for a funeral home to tell you otherwise unless you are choosing a service prior to cremation.

Can my loved one be viewed without embalming?

Yes, most crematories allow immediate family members to briefly view their loved one prior to cremation as long as it is within the advised legal time limit.

Can the family witness the cremation?

Yes they can; some cremation providers will allow family members to be present when their loved one is placed in the cremation chamber.  Some religious groups even include this as part of their funeral custom. Since we have an onsite crematory, we can easily acomodate this request.

How can I be sure I receive the correct remains?

All reputable cremation providers have developed rigorous sets of operating policies and procedures in order to maximize the level of service and minimize the potential for human error.  Since it is illegal to perform more than one cremation at a time, and the vast majority of crematories can only cremate one person at a time, it is next to impossible to receive the incorrect person. Here at Ray-Linton Cremation Services, we personally care for your loved one from start to finish.

How long does the actual cremation take?

It all depends on the weight of the individual.  For an average sized adult, cremation can take two to three hours at a normal operating temperature of between 1,650 and 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

What do the cremated remains look like?

Cremated remains resemble coarse sand and are whitish to light grey in color.  The remains of an average sized adult usually weighs between 7 and 8 pounds.

Are all the cremated remains returned?

With the exception of minute and microscopic particles, which are impossible to remove from the cremation chamber and processing machine, all of the your loved one is given back to the family.

Do I need an urn?

An urn is not required by law.  However, an urn may be desired if there is to be a memorial service or if the remains are to be interred in a cemetery.  If an urn is not purchased or provided by the family, your loved one will be returned in a temporary plastic container.