While the idea of cremation in Mount Vernon, WA might be new to some, the practice itself is quite old. In fact, cremation urns have been found in burial sites that date back thousands of years. Today, cremation is a popular choice for those who wish to forgo a traditional burial. And while many people believe that you cannot have a viewing if you choose cremation, this is not the case. In fact, funeral homes offer two types of services: cremation with a viewing and cremation without a viewing.
If you opt for viewing, the body will be prepared according to the usual standards and then placed in an open casket. The casket will be on display during visitation hours, and a funeral service can be held either before or after the cremation process. On the other hand, if you choose not to have a viewing, the body will be cremated shortly after death. While this option might seem less personal, it can actually be quite meaningful for those who wish to celebrate their loved one’s life in a more private setting.
Viewing a body before cremation
One of the decisions you have to make when a loved one dies is whether or not to view the body before cremation. Some people feel that it is important to say goodbye in this way, while others find the idea too upsetting. There are also practical considerations, such as whether you will be able to arrange a viewing in time. Ultimately, the decision is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. If you do decide to view the body, it is important to be prepared for what you will see. The person will look different than they did in life, and they may be wearing a hospital gown or other clothing that you are not used to seeing them in. It is also important to remember that the body is just a shell – the person you love is no longer there. Keep this in mind as you say your final goodbye.
What is Funeral Visitation?
Funeral visitation is a time for mourners to come together and share their memories of the deceased. The visitation typically takes place one or two days before the funeral service, and it provides an opportunity for loved ones to say their final goodbyes. During the visitation, the casket is usually open, and mourners may choose to view the body or simply spend time in silent reflection. In some cases, the visitation may also include a time for sharing memories and stories about the deceased. This can be a healing experience for both those who knew the person well and those who did not have the chance to meet them. No matter how long the visitation lasts, it is an important part of the grieving process.
What is a memorial visitation?
A memorial visitation is a gathering of family and friends after the death of a loved one. It provides an opportunity for mourners to share their grief, offer support to one another, and remember the life of the person who has died. Memorial visitations are often held in funeral homes, but they can also be held in other locations such as parks or community centers. Regardless of where they are held, memorial visitations provide a space for mourners to come together and grieve their loss.
Things to consider when planning visitation service before Cremation
When deciding to have a visitation service with cremation, there are some things to consider. Some of these things include:
- Cost: The embalming and preparation of the body, as well as buying or renting a casket for the event will all add to the overall expense of the cremation budget. Some families may see this as being unnecessary so if other family members are helping with the expenses, try and talk it over with everybody to make sure most everyone is on board.
- Religious Views or Beliefs: Even if your religious views or beliefs are accepting of the process of embalming as well as cremating, your loved one’s religious views may be different. Some religions have very specific ways a body should be dressed and prepared as well as strong opinions about cremations in general. If your loved one belonged to a certain faith, check with the religious leaders to ensure everything is being followed correctly.
- The appearance of the Body: You may want to have a visitation with an open casket, but there may be times when that is not possible or entirely appropriate. For example, if the person had to have an autopsy or a prolonged illness changed the way they looked, you may wish to not have the body on display. If you are unsure about the appearance, ask other family members for input. Also, funeral directors can help you make this decision.
Do you get embalmed before cremation?
When a person dies, their body begins to decompose. This process is hastened by the presence of bacteria, which break down the tissue and release toxins into the bloodstream. Embalming is a process in which the body is treated with chemicals in order to discourage bacterial growth and slow the decomposition process. Cremation is a method of disposing of a body in which the body is exposed to high temperatures, causing it to vaporize. Because cremation occurs at such high temperatures, any bacteria present will be killed, making embalming unnecessary. As a result, it is not necessary to embalm a body before cremation.
What to say at a visitation?
Visitation is a time for family and close friends to gather together, share memories, and support one another. It can be difficult to know what to say during a visitation, especially if you didn’t know the person who has died very well. However, it is important to remember that the visitation is not about you; it’s about the family and friends who are grieving. Just being present and offering your condolences can be a great comfort. If you did know the person who has died, you may want to share a memory or two. Keep in mind that some people may not want to talk about their loved one just yet; in this case, simply listening and offering your support can be helpful. The most important thing is to be respectful and understanding; the family and friends who are grieving are going through a difficult time, and your support can make all the difference.
How long can a body be viewed before cremation?
The length of time a body can be viewed before cremation depends on a number of factors, including the environmental conditions and the type of casket being used. In general, however, most bodies can be safely viewed for up to 48 hours after death. After that point, the risk of decomposition increases and the body becomes more difficult to preserve. For this reason, many funeral homes prefer to cremate bodies within 72 hours of death. Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule. If a family wishes to have their loved one viewed for a longer period of time, arrangements can be made with the funeral home. In these cases, the body is typically refrigerated or placed in a special viewing room with controlled conditions. Ultimately, it is up to the family to decide how long they would like to view the body before cremation.