Cremation has become an increasingly common choice for families in Philadelphia and across the country. Whether chosen for personal reasons, environmental considerations, or affordability, cremation offers a dignified alternative to burial. Still, many families are unfamiliar with the cremation process and what truly takes place.

This guide explains each step of cremation, from preparation to the return of cremated remains, so that you can make informed and confident decisions about your loved one’s final arrangements.

The Basics of Cremation 

  • Cremation Is a Dignified Alternative: Cremation offers families flexibility, affordability, and an eco-friendly option compared to traditional burial.
  • The Process Is Safe and Respectful: From meeting legal requirements to preparing the body and using modern cremation chambers, every step ensures dignity and care.
  • Cremated Remains Offer Many Choices: Families may keep cremains in a permanent urn, bury them, scatter them, or divide them into keepsakes.
  • Services Can Be Personalized: Options range from direct cremation with no ceremony to full funeral services or a later cremation ceremony.
  • Families Have Flexibility: Cremation allows families to plan final arrangements and memorials in ways that best honor their loved one’s wishes.

The History of Cremation

Cremation has been practiced for centuries. In ancient Greece, it was a noble farewell for soldiers, while during the Middle Ages, burial became more common across Europe.

Today, with modern cremation chambers and advanced cremation procedures, cremation is once again widely accepted. It combines tradition with modern safety standards, giving families more choices for final disposition.

Step 1: Legal Requirements and Authorization

Before the cremation process takes place, important legal steps are required. A funeral director works with the family to secure a death certificate and ensures all authorization forms are signed. Identification procedures are also carefully followed so the correct human body is cared for throughout the process. These requirements protect the deceased and provide families with peace of mind, knowing the process is handled with care and professionalism.

Step 2: Preparing the Body

Once approvals are in place, the deceased person is prepared for cremation. The body is placed in a cremation container, which may be a heavy cardboard container or a wooden casket. Traditional caskets are not necessary, though they can be used if the family wishes.

For safety reasons, medical devices such as pacemakers are removed before cremation begins. Personal items, such as jewelry, can either remain with the body or be returned to the family, depending on preference.

Step 3: The Cremation Chamber

The cremation process begins when the body is placed into a cremation chamber, sometimes called a crematory retort. Fueled by natural gas, these modern cremation chambers reach extremely high temperatures.

Flame-Based Cremation

In a flame-based cremation, the human body is exposed to intense heat ranging from 1,400 to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. During this stage, known as primary combustion, soft tissues and body fat are reduced through the combustion process. What remains are bone fragments and minor minerals.

Duration of the Process

The complete cremation typically lasts two to three hours. Afterward, a cooling period is necessary before the remains are handled.

Friends gather to spread cremated remains.

Step 4: From Bone Fragments to Cremated Remains

After cremation, only bone fragments remain. These are carefully collected by a crematory operator and processed into a fine, sand-like material. Families often refer to this as “ashes,” though the correct term is cremated remains.

The cremated remains are then placed in either a temporary container or a permanent urn, depending on the family’s choice. Once complete, they are respectfully returned to the family, allowing loved ones to decide on burial, scattering, or safekeeping.

Step 5: Cremation Services and Memorial Options

Cremation does not replace the opportunity for a meaningful farewell. Families can still plan services and gatherings that honor their loved one’s life.

  • Direct Cremation: The simplest option, with no ceremony or public viewing.
  • Cremation with Funeral Service: A traditional service held before or after cremation in a funeral home or place of worship.
  • Cremation Ceremony: A personalized gathering where family and friends can share memories.

Because cremation is flexible, services may take place on the same day or at a later date, allowing family members time to come together when it feels right.

Step 6: Final Disposition of Cremated Remains

Once cremated remains are returned to the family, there are several options for final disposition. Some families select a permanent urn for display at home or placement in a columbarium. Others choose burial in a family plot, much like a traditional burial.

Scattering is also a meaningful choice, whether on private property, at sea, or in another cherished location. For families who want to share the remains, keepsake urns and jewelry provide lasting connections.

Why Families Choose Cremation

Many families are turning to cremation for both practical and personal reasons.

Affordability and Simplicity

Cremation often costs less than traditional burial and eliminates the need for embalming, traditional caskets, and public viewing. Direct cremation, in particular, is straightforward and cost-effective.

Flexibility in Planning

Cremation gives families time to plan a service at a later date, rather than being limited to the days immediately following death. This allows more family members to gather and share memories.

Environmental Considerations

The cremation process utilizes fewer resources than traditional burial.

A Compassionate Partner in the Process

At the Cremation Society of Philadelphia, we guide families through every stage of the cremation process with dignity and care. From meeting legal requirements to explaining how cremated remains are handled, our goal is to provide clarity and compassion.

We understand that final arrangements are deeply personal, and we are honored to help families choose cremation options that reflect their loved one’s life, values, and wishes.

Cremation is not just a process – it is a meaningful journey of farewell. Whether you prefer direct cremation or a cremation service with a memorial, the Cremation Society of Philadelphia is here to support you every step of the way.