Cremation is now the most common form of disposition in the United States. But after cremation, families still have to decide what to do with the ashes.
While urns and burial remain meaningful choices, cremation allows for a wide range of creative, personal and lasting tributes. In this article, we’ll explore options for cremated remains, looking beyond the traditional urn to help families consider memorialization ideas that honor their loved ones in a heartfelt and enduring way.
What are the traditional options for cremated remains?
The simplest choice is to keep the remains in an urn at home. Families can select an urn that reflects their loved one’s personality, interests, faith or style. Another option is burial of ashes in a cemetery plot, urn garden or family burial space. Some cemeteries also have columbariums with niches specifically designed to hold urns.
Scattering ashes is another option. A family may select a meaningful location, such as a favorite hiking trail, garden or other place associated with the deceased. Before scattering, however, check local rules and obtain any required permission.
What are some creative and unique ways to memorialize ashes?
Families that want something more personal have many unique cremation tributes to consider. They may choose cremation jewelry, where a small portion of the remains is placed inside a pendant, bracelet, ring or other keepsake that they can carry or wear every day. Some families choose memorial art, where a small amount of cremated remains is incorporated into glass, ceramics, paintings or other artwork.
Living memorials are another option. Some families use specially designed memorial tree kits or biodegradable urns that allow a small portion of cremated remains to become part of a tree or garden memorial.
For those who want something less traditional, specialized cremation services like those offered by the certified funeral directors at Adams Mason Funeral Home can send a portion of cremated remains into space or incorporate them into memorial fireworks. Others choose artificial reefs designed to hold cremated remains, creating a permanent underwater memorial where marine life can eventually make its home.
Are there legal restrictions or environmental considerations when scattering ashes?
The short answer is yes, but the rules vary depending on where you plan to scatter. If you want to scatter cremated remains at sea, you must do it at least three nautical miles from shore. If you place flowers or a container in the water with the remains, they must be readily decomposable. You should also notify the EPA within 30 days of doing so.
Scattering at national parks requires a special use permit from the National Park Service and is usually restricted to designated remote areas. Lakes, rivers and other inland waters are governed by state or local rules, so check with the responsible authority. Scattering ashes from a plane is not prohibited as long as it does not endanger people’s lives.
Can cremated remains be divided among family members or incorporated into multiple memorials?
Yes. Families can choose to divide cremated remains among several people or memorial locations. One family member might keep an urn at home, while another chooses cremation jewelry and another arranges a cemetery burial or scattering ceremony.
This can be particularly helpful when relatives live in different states or had different relationships with the deceased. Before dividing the remains, discuss the decision with everyone involved and ask the crematory to divide them to avoid spills or unnecessary stress.
What are the practical and emotional aspects of keeping ashes at home, and what alternatives exist for those who prefer not to?
Keeping cremated remains at home can be comforting, especially when the loss is recent. Some families place the urn in a special room, display it alongside photographs or create a small memorial space. Others may find that having the remains at home makes it harder to move forward.
If keeping the urn at home doesn’t feel right, there are other cremation options to consider. You can choose burial of ashes in a cemetery, place the urn in a columbarium niche, scatter the remains at a meaningful location or use a small portion for cremation jewelry or memorial art.
There is no need to make the decision immediately. Take the time your family needs.
Conclusion
There is no single right answer to what to do with ashes after cremation. Some families prefer a traditional urn or burial of ashes, while others want a memorial that reflects a hobby, favorite place or personality of their departed loved one. As the certified funeral directors at Adams Mason Funeral Home note, the most important thing is choosing an option that feels respectful and meaningful to you and your family.