Burial Services

Though most people are aware of the basic burial choices, they may not be aware that there are many options and variations to the traditional funeral or cremation. Since there can be a substantial cost difference among burial services, consumers can benefit considerably from exploring their options. The basic options are as follows:

A direct burial is when the body is buried, without embalming, shortly after death. Thus, there is no viewing or visitation. A graveside service or memorial service may follow the burial. The body may be buried at a grave site. This is a quick, simple and inexpensive burial option.

The direct cremation is similarly simple and less expensive. The body is cremated shortly after death. A memorial service may follow, immediately or later. The remains are placed in a container appropriate for their final resting place. The remains could be kept in the home or buried; placed in a crypt or a cemetery niche.

Burial Service Combinations

If the family of the deceased seeks a more involved service, they may opt for a full-funeral service with viewings and visitations. This requires embalming and body preparation; a structured service in a church, chapel or hall; and a grave side service. The body may also be entombed instead of buried.

A family could also decide that they want a full-funeral with a subsequent cremation. This kind of service could still involve a burial. Or the family might want to keep the remains elsewhere.

Cremation also allows for burial at sea and the opportunity to scatter the remains at a chosen location over water or land. These options eliminate the need for a cemetery and all of the services associated with a burial.

An Environmental Option

Another burial option is the lesser known "green graveyards." Though there are only a few in this country, green graveyards are cemeteries located in natural settings or nature preserves, where people choose to be buried without embalming, in biodegradable coffins or shrouds. Some services include a tree planting on or near the burial plot.

There are burial options for every desire. An investigation into the many choices could result in a cheaper and more satisfying burial experience.