You have many options to choose from for the final placement of cremated remains. Some examples of these include in-ground burial, above-ground entombment, and cremation niche interment. You also have options such as keepsake cremation jewelry offer an appealing way to feel close to your loved one.

Whether you bury cremated remains in the ground or place cremated remains (called inurnment), in a niche, these memorialization options create a focal point for spouse, children and grandchildren to visit, place flowers and learn about their heritage.

Cremation is a clean, ecologically sound process, in which a body is reduced to its basic elements. A casket or alternative container holding the deceased is placed into the cremation chamber, where the temperature between 1500 and 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. A couple of hours later, the remains are carefully removed from the chamber and processed into what's known as "cremated remains." The cremated remains are removed from the chamber and placed in the urn or receptacle that is selected by the family.

Cremated remains are often referred to as "ashes", but in fact they are made of pulverized bone fragments. This is because all traces of organic, carbon-based matter are removed during the cremation process, leaving behind only bone and small amounts of salts and minerals. Because all organic material and bodily fluids evaporate, what remains does not present any sort of hazard to people or to the environment

Just as each person is unique, their cremated remains are also unique. The amount of certain elements changes from person to person, creating an elemental signature that's as distinctive as a fingerprint.

A cremation niche is a compartment designed to hold one or more urns containing cremated remains. Cremation niches are often inside of columbaria, which are buildings or structures that can be located indoors or outdoors, and which often house many cremation niches.

Cremation memorialization helps loved ones pay tribute to a life that was lived. Memorialization creates a lasting tribute and a place of honor for the present generation to pass on your story to the next generation.There are many different forms of cremation memorialization, from burial of the remains with a bronze memorial marking the spot, to placing an urn in a cremation niche, and there are even memorial keepsakes and jewelry. In fact, there are so many unique ways to memorialize someone after cremation that you're sure to find one that honors the life that was lived.

No, we do not allow scattering within our cemetery due to environmental effects as cremated remains are not simply ashes, but fine bone fragments that do not biodegrade easily. They will kill animal and plant populations.

Although occasionally done, the practice of scattering human remains can present difficulties for families and survivors of the deceased. Some people may find it hard to simply pour the mortal remains of a loved one out onto the ground or into the sea. Another difficulty with scattering can occur when the remains are disposed of in an anonymous, unmarked, or public place. Access to the area may be restricted for some reason in the future, undeveloped land may be developed or any of a host of other conditions may arise that could make it difficult for your survivors to visit the site to remember you. Once scattered, cremated remains cannot be collected back up. It should also be noted that scattering laws vary by state and should be checked before any action is taken as there are property and environmental factors to be taken into account.

If you do choose to scatter your loved one’s cremated remains, please be advised that cremated remains can be stark white and, therefore, rather conspicuous. You may wish to consider a shallow burial, unless you’re scattering in water. Permission from a landowner to scatter cremated remains on private land is strongly suggested. Most controlled lands, such as a public city parks, have rules and regulations, and require permits. For non-specific public lands (e.g. rural woodlands), scatter at your own risk. It is highly advisable to use roads or areas less traveled for the scattering ceremony. Cremated remains should not be scattered within 100 yards of public roads, walks, or public trails. The container which carries the remains must be disposed of separately. Please familiarize yourself with the local and state laws of the area you are interested in scattering in. Federal law may take precedence over state law in some scenarios.

We strongly feel that giving a family the chance to gather together with their extended family, friends, and community to share memories, remember, and say goodbye to a loved one who has passed on is paramount in beginning the complicated journey through grief. At Jefferson Memorial, nearly 50% of families who choose cremation also choose to hold a viewing or memorial service either before or after cremation. There are many options available for cremation services, from traditional visitation and viewing services, to graveside memorials and celebrant services. Let our licensed staff help you choose the best option for your family and give yourself the peace of mind knowing you made the right decision.

Witnessing a cremation can be an emotional experience, but also provide a sense of closure for a family. Authorized persons are permitted to be present for witnessing the cremation from our comfortable family lounge.