Blog - Memorial Mortuaries

What Is the Cremation Process?

Fri, 08 May 2026 12:00:47 GMT

Summary

• Cremation follows national standards supported by CANA, NFDA, and the FTC.

• The process begins with written authorization and verified identification.

• Cremation occurs in a specialized chamber overseen by trained professionals.

• Families in Indianapolis may choose memorial services, urn placement, or scattering.

What Is the Cremation Process?

Families in Indianapolis, IN often wonder what happens during the cremation process. According to the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) and the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), cremation is a respectful process designed to ensure dignity, care, and proper identification throughout every step. Information is accurate as of 2025.

Typically, the process begins with written authorization from the legal next of kin. Identification is carefully verified, and required documentation is reviewed before cremation can proceed. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), through the Funeral Rule, helps protect families by outlining required disclosures and family rights.

Before cremation begins, the individual is placed in an approved cremation container that meets legal and ethical standards. An identification tag remains with the individual throughout the entire process, following CANA and NFDA practices intended to support accountability.

Cremation takes place in a specialized chamber designed specifically for this purpose. While procedures may vary, trained professionals oversee the process to ensure it is carried out respectfully and in alignment with national guidelines.

After the cremation is complete, the cremated remains are carefully processed and placed into the urn or container selected by the family. Many families in Indianapolis, IN choose to honor their loved one through memorial services , urn placement, or scattering in a meaningful location.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the cremation process typically take?

Cremation often takes several hours, with additional time afterward to prepare the cremated remains before they are returned to the family.

Can families be present during cremation?

Some crematories may allow families to be present at the beginning of the cremation process. Availability varies, so families may ask about local options.

What happens after the cremation is complete?

After cremation, the cremated remains are placed into an urn or temporary container and returned to the family along with any required documentation.

Written for Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals, proudly serving families in Indianapolis with compassion and care.

About Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals

Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals is located at 5811 E 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46218 , and can be reached at (317) 547-5814. The funeral home provides funeral and cremation services with a focus on dignity, respect, and personalized care for families throughout the Indianapolis community.

www.laveniasummers.com

What Is Needed from Next of Kin for Burial and Cremation in Indianapolis, IN?

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:00:21 GMT

Summary

The next of kin typically provides legal authorization for burial or cremation.
Funeral homes often request identification, vital information, and signed authorization forms.
Documentation needs may vary by state and individual circumstances.
Funeral professionals help guide families through each step with care and clarity.

What Is Needed from Next of Kin for Burial and Cremation

Families in Indianapolis, Indiana often ask what is needed from the next of kin when planning burial or cremation . According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), funeral professionals typically rely on the legal next of kin to provide written authorization before arrangements can move forward.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) explains that authorization supports transparency under the Funeral Rule, helping families understand their rights and choices. Next of kin most often includes a spouse, adult child, parent, or legally appointed representative.

Identification and Essential Documentation

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights the importance of accurate information when preparing an official death certificate. Because of this, funeral homes often request the following from the next of kin:

A government-issued photo ID for the person authorizing arrangements.
Vital details about the deceased, including legal name, date of birth, parents’ names, and Social Security number.
Signed authorization forms for burial or cremation.
Information required to complete and file the death certificate.

Providing this information helps ensure arrangements follow legal guidelines while honoring the wishes of the family.

Why Authorization Matters

Authorization confirms that the individual making decisions has the legal right to do so. For burial, families may need to confirm cemetery property or permit information. For cremation, a signed Cremation Authorization Form is typically required, and some situations may involve a brief waiting period or additional review.

Funeral professionals at Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals support families throughout Indianapolis, Indiana, helping them feel informed and cared for during a difficult time.

FAQs

Who is considered the next of kin?

The next of kin is typically a spouse, adult child, parent, or legally appointed representative authorized to make final arrangements.

What documents are needed to start arrangements?

Most funeral homes request identification for the next of kin, vital information for the death certificate, and signatures on authorization forms for burial or cremation.

Do requirements differ by state?

Yes. Requirements may vary by state or situation, so families should consult their funeral home for guidance specific to their location.

Written for Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals, proudly serving families in Indianapolis, Indiana with compassion and care.

About Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals

Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals serves families in Indianapolis, Indiana with respectful funeral and cremation services. The funeral home is located at 5811 E 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46218 , and families may call (317) 547-5814 for thoughtful guidance and assistance.

www.laveniasummers.com

Why Do Funeral & Cremation Costs Vary in Indianapolis, Indiana?

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:00:08 GMT

Summary

• Funeral and cremation costs may vary based on regional expenses, facilities, staffing, and service options.

• Families in Indianapolis may notice different prices depending on service type, personalization, and gathering spaces.

• Professional care, documentation support, and the level of involvement chosen often influence total cost.

• The FTC’s Funeral Rule ensures every funeral home provides clear, itemized pricing so families can make informed decisions.

Why Do Funeral and Cremation Costs Vary?

Families in Indianapolis often wonder why funeral and cremation costs differ from one funeral home to another. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), price variations are common nationwide due to differences in operating expenses, staffing levels, and available service options. All cost-related insights referenced here are accurate as of 2025.

Regional and Overhead Differences

Funeral homes in Indiana experience different operational expenses depending on their location. In a city like Indianapolis, factors such as property costs, staffing, utilities, and facility maintenance all shape how pricing is structured. These regional influences help explain why similar services may be priced differently from one provider to another.

Facilities, Service Options, and Personalization

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires funeral homes to provide families with an itemized General Price List (GPL) to promote transparency. Prices may vary depending on whether a funeral home offers on-site cremation, multiple chapels, reception areas, or other specialized spaces for gatherings.

Service selections also play a meaningful role. Options such as a full funeral service, cremation with a memorial gathering, or direct cremation involve different levels of preparation, staff time, and facility use. Personalized elements—such as music, flowers, printed materials, video tributes, and catering—may add to the total cost based on each family’s wishes.

Professional Care, Expertise, and Documentation

According to the Cremation Association of North America (CANA), funeral and cremation arrangements require skilled professional care. Transportation, preparation, planning guidance, and assistance with necessary documentation all require training and time, which are reflected in overall service costs.

Families may find it helpful to review GPLs, ask questions, and compare options so they can choose the funeral home that best matches their needs, values, and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do funeral homes charge different prices for similar services?

Pricing often reflects regional operating expenses, facility offerings, staffing levels, and the degree of personalization a family chooses.

Does the FTC require funeral homes to provide detailed price lists?

Yes. Under the FTC’s Funeral Rule, every funeral home must provide a General Price List (GPL) so families can review services and costs before making decisions.

Can preplanning help manage funeral or cremation costs?

Preplanning may help families clarify their wishes, reduce emotional stress for loved ones, and bring greater predictability to future expenses.

Written for Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals, proudly serving families in Indianapolis with compassion and care.

About Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals

Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals is honored to support families throughout Indianapolis and surrounding Indiana communities with compassionate guidance and meaningful services. Located at 5811 E 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46218, they can be reached at (317) 547-5814 for assistance, planning support, and information about available service options.

www.laveniasummers.com

How Much Does Cremation Cost in Indianapolis, IN?

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 13:01:00 GMT

Summary

• According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the national median cost of a funeral with cremation is $6,280 as of 2025.

• Direct cremation, which typically does not include a ceremony, generally ranges from $2,800 to $3,000 nationwide.

• Cremation costs vary based on the type of service, professional care, and any merchandise a family chooses.

• Families in Indianapolis often appreciate cremation for its flexibility, simplicity, and ability to honor cultural and personal traditions.

How Much Does Cremation Cost?

Families in Indianapolis, Indiana, often ask how much cremation costs and how national averages apply to their needs. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) 2024 General Price List Study, the national median cost of a funeral with cremation is $6,280, accurate as of 2025.

This amount typically includes professional services, transportation, care of the loved one, and the use of facilities for a funeral, memorial, or celebration of life.

For families seeking a simpler option, direct cremation is generally the most affordable choice. National averages show that direct cremation typically ranges from $2,800 to $3,000.

This option often includes the essential components of the cremation process and required documentation, without a service or visitation.

What Factors Influence Cremation Costs?

Cremation costs can vary depending on the type of service chosen. A full cremation service with a visitation or ceremony may involve additional staff support, facility use, and coordination.

Merchandise selections also play a role. Families may choose an urn or keepsake item that aligns with their loved one’s wishes. These options remain general and flexible so families can choose what feels appropriate.

Local considerations in Indianapolis—including facility needs, staffing, and Indiana state requirements—also contribute to cost differences.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Funeral Rule ensures transparency by requiring funeral homes to provide a clear General Price List (GPL), helping families compare options and make informed decisions.

Planning ahead can offer peace of mind, allowing families to understand available choices, record wishes, and reduce emotional stress during difficult times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cremation typically more affordable than burial?

Cremation is often more affordable because it usually does not involve a burial vault, cemetery property, or a casket. However, total costs depend on the type of service and merchandise selected.

Can families still hold a service with cremation?

Yes. Many families in Indianapolis choose to hold a funeral, memorial, or celebration of life before or after the cremation. These services can be personalized to reflect cultural, religious, and family traditions.

What is generally included with direct cremation?

Direct cremation typically includes transportation into the funeral home’s care, basic professional services, required paperwork, and the cremation itself. It does not include a ceremony or visitation, but families may choose to arrange their own gathering.

Written for Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals, proudly serving families in Indianapolis with compassion and care.

About Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals

Families in Indianapolis, Indiana, can turn to Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals for caring, professional guidance. Located at 5811 E 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46218, their dedicated team can be reached at (317) 547-5814 for support with cremation services, planning, and memorial options.

www.laveniasummers.com

How Much Does a Funeral Cost in Indianapolis, Indiana?

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 13:00:35 GMT

Summary

• Funeral costs vary based on service type, merchandise, and regional factors.

• According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the 2024 median cost of a funeral with burial is $8,300.

• The NFDA median cost for a funeral with cremation is $6,280.

• Planning ahead can help families understand options and make informed decisions.

How Much Does a Funeral Cost?

Families in Indianapolis, Indiana, often wonder what to expect when planning a funeral and how costs may vary. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial is around $8,300, while a funeral with cremation has a median cost of $6,280. These national averages, accurate as of 2025, offer a helpful starting point for understanding the factors that influence overall expenses.

Funeral costs typically vary due to the type of service chosen, the level of personalization, and the facilities used. Professional services may include planning support from the funeral director and staff, care of the deceased, and transportation. Families may also choose a casket, urn, or other items that reflect their loved one’s preferences, though merchandise choices can influence total costs.

It is also important to note that cemetery fees are generally not included in NFDA’s reported averages. These may include opening and closing of the grave, grave liner or vault requirements, and perpetual care fees. Because of these variables, funeral costs can differ widely from one family’s needs to another.

Planning ahead can bring clarity and peace of mind. Understanding available options allows families to make thoughtful decisions that honor their loved one while staying mindful of their budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors influence the total cost of a funeral?

Funeral costs often depend on the type of service selected, merchandise choices, staffing needs, and cemetery requirements.

Are cemetery fees included in the NFDA average cost?

No. Cemetery costs are typically separate and can vary depending on the location and type of burial space.

Does preplanning help reduce funeral costs?

Preplanning can help families understand their options, make informed decisions, and avoid unexpected expenses.

Written for Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals, proudly serving families in Indianapolis with compassion and care.

About Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals

Families in Indianapolis, Indiana, can turn to Lavenia and Summers Home for Funerals for caring and professional guidance when planning ahead. Located at 5811 E 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46218, their dedicated staff can be reached at (317) 547-5814 to answer questions about funeral options and preplanning.

www.laveniasummers.com

Jack be Nimble & Quick … get your affairs in order!

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 19:42:46 GMT

One thing we have come to realize this year is the value of being nimble, agile or light footed. Our world has been turned inside out. We have all come to expect the unexpected and to realize that little is certain. Getting a handle on life in 2020 has been a little like nailing Jell-O! Being flexible and prepared has become more important than ever before.

Many of us have reevaluated our preparedness for everything from fire and flood to shortages of toilet paper and food. Being prepared, in this uncertain world, relieves anxiety. We just feel better when we have a stash of canned goods and a couple of cases of TP at the ready.

No one wants to think about a family member losing their independence or becoming ill or worse: dying. Still, it is something we should consider. Is there someone you could become responsible for if they fall ill? Do you have a medical power of attorney for that person? Is there an advance directive for health care? Is there a funeral plan? Who would be responsible for you if you were the one who became ill and not able to make your own decisions? Does that person have a POA for you? Have you provided an advance directive? Do you have a funeral plan? Does your designated person know who to call and what you would want them to do?

The documents that meet the legal requirements in each state for a medical POA and advance directives are generally available on-line. A funeral plan is something you do with a funeral director or funeral planner. Nearly all funeral homes have someone on staff designated to help people in their community with advance funeral planning. This service is usually provided free of charge and the funeral home will keep a copy of your plan on file at the funeral home.

Funeral plans are, by design, nimble. They are portable so if you move you can take them with you. They can also always be changed and updated should your ideas about your service change over time.

If you have been putting off taking care of any of these documents, now is the time. You will feel better when it is all done and in order.

www.laveniasummers.com

Saying thank-you to a Veteran

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 19:40:17 GMT

There are a million ways to say thank you. Great or small they all have value.

· Decide to always just say thank you whenever you see a person in uniform.

· When you see a person in uniform at the coffee shop or fast food restaurant pick up their tab if you can.

· At the airport trade your first class or comfort seat for their standard seat

· If you have a neighbor who is deployed offer to play catch with the kids or mow the lawn. Ask how you can help

· Send a care package by contacting Operation Gratitude

· Donate your old cell phone

· Drive a Veteran to their doctor appointments (contact the hospital services coordinator at the local VA hospital)

· Write a letter

· Volunteer at a VA hospital

· If you run a business hire a veteran - Hire Heroes USA

· Donate dollars or time to train service dogs for veterans - Patriot Paws or Puppy Jake Foundation

· Build a house for a veteran - Building Homes for Heroes

Big dollars or only a few dollars, lots of time or only a little time, where there is a will there is a way to say thank you to those who serve in our military.

www.laveniasummers.com

Am I Too Young to Plan My Funeral?

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 19:38:14 GMT

If you are thinking about planning your funeral it is a good sign you are not too young. Although most people tackle this task when they are preparing to retire or after the children have left home, many plan sooner. In reality, most plan because they want to or need to. Age is not the determining factor. Whatever the reason you are thinking about planning your funeral, trust yourself. It is a good enough reason. Don’t worry that you are not “old” enough.

What are some of the situations that prompt younger folks to consider planning their funeral? There are many. Maybe they are concerned about the person who would be responsible for arrangements if the unexpected did occur. It could be they do not have confidence in the family member who would be legally in charge, or they have strained relations with family and would prefer someone other than family handle the arrangements. Some may not want to burden family with decisions or financial responsibility while others don’t practice the same faith as their family members and would prefer a different kind of service. A lot of people have a clear idea of what they want, and they prefer to take matters into their own hands to assure what they want to happen does happen.

A funeral that is planned in advance may be either funded or unfunded. An unfunded plan includes recording your preferences for disposition (burial or cremation) and services (faith based, life celebration or both) and keeping them on file at the funeral home. A funded funeral plan is both planned and paid for by the person making the plan.

There are some real financial advantages to planning your funeral when you are younger rather than waiting until you are older. Most funeral homes have advance planning experts on staff who will explain these advantages to you at no cost and without any obligation. All that is needed is to call the funeral home and ask for a consultation appointment. Spending a little time with one of these funeral experts will allow you to have all of your questions answered.

Some of the advantages you will want to explore are the ability to pay for your funeral using a program that will allow you to pay in small budget friendly monthly payments. These programs, usually available only through a funeral home, have the added advantage of covering the entire cost of your funeral should you die before you have completed your payment plan. The coverage your funeral home can offer is vastly different from so called “final expense” plans that are available through typical insurance companies. Be sure to ask the pre-arrangement specialist at your local funeral home how the plans they offer work.

Ask how inflation protection is built into the plan. This feature alone can be a real advantage for those who plan when they are younger. Funerals, like most products and services, increase in cost over time. This makes planning sooner rather than later less expensive in many cases.

There is no need to worry about the “what ifs” just ask, “What if I move? What if I change my mind and want to be buried instead of cremated? What if I marry or divorce? What if funerals become virtual in the future? What if a meteor wipes out the planet earth?” Just ask. The advance planning expert at your local funeral home has answers.

www.laveniasummers.com

Burial Vault: What’s the Point?

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 19:35:41 GMT

Historically speaking, burial vaults were conceived as a means of protection from grave robbers. They were designed and intended to make it difficult to get into the coffin and remove valuables or even the body itself from the grave. Early vaults were made of wood and were called a “rough box” because they were rustic and unfinished in comparison to the more finely finished coffin.

In the late 1800s grave liners were in common use. These were made of brick on site at the cemetery. Bricks were fashioned right in the grave literally lining the grave space. Over time the concept of protection expanded to include protection from the elements. Family members became interested in protecting the casket or coffin from water, critters, and decomposition in general. Many families today consider “how” they care for a deceased family member to be a reflection of their love for that person and point of family pride.

When burial is selected as the final disposition of the body the deceased is most often placed in a casket. The difference between a coffin and a casket is the shape. A coffin is six-sided, it is wider toward the top third to accommodate the shoulders of the body and tapers to the foot. More commonly used in the U.S. is the rectangularly shaped casket. Caskets are most often made of wood or metal.

Wood caskets can be made of any species of wood and may be finished with ornate carving or may be very simple. The easiest way to understand the difference in cost of wooden caskets is to apply what you know about furniture. Solid mahogany will cost more than a veneer of pine. Many caskets are also made of metal. Carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, or bronze are all used. The cost and durability of a metal casket is directly related to the material from which the casket is made.

Burial in a cemetery usually requires an outer burial container. A grave liner or a vault is almost universally required by every cemetery to protect the casket and the integrity of the grave space from the weight of the earth and the heavy equipment that will pass over the grave in order to provide routine maintenance of the property. Grave liners are no longer constructed on site and made of bricks. They are most often made of concrete. Grave liners do not seal. A vault can be made of concrete or fiberglass, with or without a metal liner. Vaults will have a seal.

At this point you may be thinking, “who cares?” Well that is the thing, many people do care, and they care deeply. Others do not. This is the reason why the trip to the casket selection space at the funeral home and the process of helping a family make a choice that fits their values and budget is sensitive. Open communication regarding values and budget is essential. Funeral directors are there to help, answer questions, and explain differences. They educate and the family chooses.

So, what is the point of the vault? The point will vary from one family to the next. For some the point will be to satisfy the cemetery requirement as frugally as possible. For others the point will be to protect the integrity of the grave as much as possible. It is a matter of personal choice.

www.laveniasummers.com

Memorializing an Avid Gardener

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 19:30:43 GMT

When a life ends, we remember. We remember the love, the bonds, and the passions of the person who died. A well put-together funeral that honors the life, faith, and relationships of the deceased is the first foothold on the path of healing for survivors.

Funerals that reflect a person’s interests can be powerful. They provide comfort for the family left behind. Funerals help change the focus from the cause of death, to the life that was lived. That remembering is comforting. So how can a family weave their mother or father’s love of gardening into the funeral service?

Be it a love of growing vegetables, flowers, or both, there are hundreds of ways to reflect a person’s passion for gardening in a funeral service. A few ideas follow:

· Get that great picture of your gardener wearing their favorite gardening hat, face streaked with dirt and trowel in hand. Blow it up LARGE and display it during the visitation or memorial.

· Ask friends and family to bring a small potted flower or plant in lei of traditional funeral flower arrangements and have a plant swap … those who attend the funeral can take home a plant to grow in their own garden in remembrance of the gardener.

· Use your gardener’s favorite flowers or an arrangement of vegetables as the casket spray

· If you really want to go big, consider what florists can do for weddings and talk to yours about bringing a garden to the church or funeral home.

· Give a packet of seeds or a pair of garden gloves as a favor to funeral attendees

· Include a garden-themed poem in the funeral service

· Have a memorial tree planted at your local arboretum to honor your loved one.

· Ask your funeral director to help you find funeral products that reflect that love of all things gardening to support the service choices you have made.

The ideas above are just a short list of possibilities. There are many more, you just need to do two things. First, be open. Think about that person you love, talk with the others who loved them. Ask yourself, “how do we showcase that gardening passion in the funeral or memorial service?” Second, ask for help. Tell your funeral director what you want to do. Challenge him to either be creative or help you connect with other professionals in your community who can support your goal. Your funeral director wants you and your family to have the absolute best, most meaningful funeral service. He or she is there to help you, just ask.

www.laveniasummers.com

Attending a Lot of Funerals

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 12:00:24 GMT

Funerals are beautiful celebrations of life that allow us to say goodbye to people we loved. But there may come a time when attending a funeral is sadly no longer a rare occurrence. Having to attend many funerals can be overwhelming, instigating feelings of grief for many different loved ones. What can you do to help yourself when attending too many funerals becomes overpowering?

What to Do When You’re Attending Many Funerals

Recognize that you can only do so much.

A funeral can be a celebration for someone who has passed, but it’s also a chance to be there for those who remain. Especially if you were very close to the person who passed, you’d naturally want to do all you can for the people they loved. That desire comes from a good place, but when you’re attending a lot of funerals, you may quickly find yourself overextended. Wanting to help is admirable, but remember that you’re experiencing much grief right now. It’s not easy to lose so many people you love in a short amount of time. Taking care of yourself is essential too.

Consider speaking to someone.

Especially if you’ve reached an age where many of your friends are no longer with you, talking to a mental health professional is vital. You’re experiencing grief, but so many funerals can also trigger some thoughts about your own passing. While talking to your family may be helpful, a mental health professional with experience helping others overcome grief can guide you through the tough questions. Depending on how your loved ones passed, you might also want to work with a professional with particular experience, such as one who works with people whose loved ones passed from advanced age or terminal illness.

Know that it’s okay to decline.

Attending a funeral allows you to pay tribute to someone you loved. But that’s not to say that it’s the only way. When you’re going to many funerals, you may become overwhelmed. You’re grieving too, and losing so many people one after another is heartbreaking. Sometimes, a funeral is too much when you’re already emotionally exhausted. If you find it too difficult to go to another funeral, write a letter of condolence to the remaining family. You may want to explain the situation, but you don’t need to present your emotional state. It’s more important to spend the letter talking about the person you and they are missing. Talk about how much you loved them and what they meant to you. If you’re feeling up to it, you can offer support to the remaining family, but if not, it’s enough to say that you’re sorry for their loss and that their loved one will be greatly missed.

Spend more time with the ones you love.

You may find yourself thinking about your own mortality when you’re attending a lot of funerals. It’s natural to have questions and worries, especially if you’re of an age where it’s hard to know how much time is left. A big part of enjoying the time we have is spending it with those who matter to us. Especially after losing many people very quickly, you should try to remind yourself that you’re still not alone. There are people out there who love you and who you love back. You may feel lonely after losing so many loved ones, but combatting loneliness starts with recognizing that it’s never too late to forge deeper bonds in our lives.

Don’t mask your thoughts.

Losing loved ones, especially many in a short time, can trigger symptoms of anxiety, such as racing thoughts. Many people try to cover their thoughts, searching for distractions. But those distractions only mask the symptom rather than treating the root of the problem. Refusing to recognize your thoughts only makes them fester, which can worsen anxiety. Instead, spend time with your thoughts and learn how to cope with them. Find ways to address your anxious thoughts. Working through a plan with your mental health professional is a good way to combat how you’re feeling properly. Some methods of managing anxious thoughts that may help include taking time every day to write out how you’re feeling, doing deep breathing exercises, or having a daily session of either walking or sitting meditation.

For many of us, once we reach a certain age, we’ll sadly begin attending many funerals. But whether that stage in your life comes tragically early or much later on, you must take care of yourself. Grief is a sneaky emotion. Taking care of your mental health can help prevent it from becoming too overwhelming. Even still, it’s okay to miss people. You’re going to miss talking to them, seeing their smiles, hearing their voice, and all the little things that they brought to the world that made it a brighter place. Nothing takes away the pain of losing them, but working with a mental health professional and continuing to live each day in the best way possible can make the world feel a little less dark without them.

www.laveniasummers.com

Where Not to Scatter Cremated Remains

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:38:20 GMT

For many folks the absolute “best” final resting place is someplace they loved when they were alive. Their “burial” plan is not to be buried at all, but to be cremated and have their ashes scattered at a special location. For those who prefer scattering there are a wide variety of options available. Still, not every scattering idea is a good idea. To help you determine if your scattering plan is a good plan be sure to consider these four things.

1. Think about the location of your choice. Is it legal and will it work? With permission from the owner of the golf course ashes could be scattered. Without permission scattering on private property that belongs to someone else is not legal and may not go smoothly.

2. As you put together your plan keep in mind scattering does not eliminate emotion. Family members tasked with scattering a loved one’s ashes experience the same emotions as those who stand at the graveside and watch the casket being lowered into the ground. No amount of creativity in the selection of the location will eliminate the emotion of the task.

3. You need a plan. “Just scatter me” is not a plan, it is a shift of responsibility. Someone in your family is going to be required to figure out when and where this scattering will take place if you do not.

4. Seek professional advice. Your funeral director can help you plan and prepare for a successful scattering.

Scattering at sea

There are laws. Federal law protects the oceans. See United States Environmental Protection Agency Burial at Sea for detailed policy information. Scattering in the ocean must take place at least three miles from shore, the ashes can go in, the container may not. That is unless it is biodegradable, then both the container and its contents can be commissioned to the sea. The expense of purchasing a proper biodegradable cremation urn is money well spent. The sea will be moving, maybe a little, or maybe even a lot. A smooth operation is critical to everyone feeling good about the dignity of the ceremony. Your funeral director can help you find a proper container for scattering at sea.

Consider using an offshore scattering service instead of a friend with a boat for the actual ceremony. A service gives your family the benefit of experience. They will know how to position the boat in relation to the wind and waves in order to assure a pleasant experience. Professionals will also be prepared for the needs of the family on board. They will not be surprised or unprepared for sea sickness of guests. Your funeral director is your best resource for finding this kind of service.

Scattering on public lands

States have jurisdiction over public lands and waterways within their boundaries. Laws vary widely from state to state. Be sure to ask your funeral director about the laws in your state. Seek advice and take care to be sure the scattering ceremony your family has planned will not run into an embarrassing roadblock midway into the ceremony. Share your plan and ask for the professional advice of your funeral director.

Scattering on private property

Scattering on private property requires the permission of the property owner. Resist the temptation to skip the permission step. Scattering on property that is not your own without permission is a recipe for disaster.

In addition to giving careful consideration to the scattering location it is always a good idea to consider the feelings of the mourners. It is easy to move forward with the desire of the deceased to be scattered and still satisfy the needs of mourners who may not be entirely comfortable with scattering. All that is required is good communication. Talk to your family about your plan well in advance. Find out who is and who may not be comfortable with your desire.

One of the lovely things about cremation is that the ashes can easily be divided. A family member can retain a small portion of the remains in a keepsake urn, garden bench, paperweight or even a piece of cremation jewelry. The remainder can then be scattered according to the wishes of the deceased.

One final consideration if you are thinking of leaving your family scattering instructions -be sure to think it through. Consider how your desire will play out for at least the next two or three generations. Will your beloved garden still be in the family? Or might the property be sold? Who will keep the urn after your wife dies, how about after your daughter dies? Think about how those who mourn you may be impacted by your desire to be scattered.