Cremation is becoming an increasingly common choice among families in Steubenville-Wintersville, Ohio. We understand that this is not an easy topic to think about and discuss with your family.

The reasons for choosing cremation in Steubenville, OH are varied and personal. You may choose cremation based on environmental considerations, philosophical or religious reasons, or even because you feel it is simpler or less complicated.

You may also choose cremation because it can be less expensive than traditional burial, although local cremations vary widely in price and cost based on your personal selections.

Regardless of the reason, cremation is only half of the story. Your plans for a viewing, visitation, funeral, or memorial service don’t have to change if you choose cremation. 

Just as with traditional burial, a local funeral director or preneed specialist can help you to plan your services, whether they happen before or after cremation. There are a variety of options available, some of these include: 

• Cremation following a funeral service and visitation  
• Memorial service with or without the cremated ashes present 
• Religious service 
• Direct cremation with no service 

Planning and setting aside funds for your funeral arrangements can provide you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing your final expenses are covered, and that you will be memorialized in a way that is meaningful to you and your family. Simply Speaking: Cremation is designed to help you better understand cremation in Steubenville and Wintersville, Ohio, your options for a memorial, and the resources available to help you figure it all out.  

Once the decision for cremation has been made, all that's required is authorization. This is provided by the person who is the legally identified or appointed next-of-kin. Once all authorization documents are signed, and service charges are paid; the body can be transported from the place of death to the crematory and the cremation process can take place. However, there are some additional things you may wish to consider, such as:

• Is there a special set of clothes (such as a military uniform or favorite dress) your loved one would appreciate wearing? This will be a focus of the cremation arrangement, and you will be advised by your funeral director as to your best options for jewelry or other valuables.

• Are there any keepsake items you'd like to include in their cremation casket? Perhaps there's a special memento, such as a treasured photograph or letter? We sometimes suggest family members write cards or letters, and place them in the casket prior to the cremation.

• Would you or other family members like to be present for–or participate to some degree in–your loved one's cremation? Because we know how healing it can be to take part in an act of "letting go", we welcome the opportunity to bring interested family or friends into the crematory. Please discuss your desire to participate with your funeral director.
  

What will you keep the cremated remains or ashes in after the cremation or the service? Many families are simply unaware that they can purchase a cremation urn to be placed in a special place such as the family home. We offer a large selection of urns that will help memorialize your loved one. Ask one of our caring funeral director's to see the wide variety of urns.