If there’s one thing that working within the funeral industry has shown us, it is that every family is different – but usually, when it comes to a loved one’s final send off, it feels important that the occasion is fitting, meaningful. For some, this may mean a full, traditional funeral, perhaps one reflecting the deceased’s faith in life, but this is not the case for all.

Direct cremation is an option that more and more people are choosing for their lost loved ones, a basic, no-frills alternative to more elaborate traditional funerals, which nonetheless offers the freedom to create a fitting farewell that truly suits the family and friends of the deceased.

Whilst being simpler occasions than some other full funerals, direct cremations are nonetheless full of care and respect, with your loved one treated with careful dignity by your funeral director on their final journey.

Due to the straightforward and fuss-free processes of a direct cremation, they also represent a less expensive alternative to a more elaborate send off, with no additional costs required for extras such as flowers, funeral transport and venue hire, which, to some, may feel unnecessary or an additional or unwanted expense.

What Happens During a Direct Cremation?

Once in the funeral director’s care, a simple coffin will be provided for the deceased and a cremation will be arranged on the time and date, and at a location, of the director’s discretion (note that with Hunnaball Family Funeral Group, this will almost always be arranged to take place locally). No embalming or similar preparations of this kind will take place ahead of a direct cremation.

The funeral director will then accompany your loved one to the crematorium on the day itself, and the cremation will take place. Direct cremations are not attended by friends or family members, but the funeral director will ensure that ashes are provided back to the next of kin shortly afterwards, or that they are placed or scattered in accordance with their wishes, as relevant.

Friends and family of the deceased are then free to celebrate the life of the person they’ve lost, completely on their own terms, as, when and wherever they may wish to – in a way that feels personal and meaningful. This may be in the form of a traditional wake or formal gathering if this feels right but can otherwise be free of any constraints or unwanted elements of more elaborate funerals – it may be as simple as a family nature walk of remembrance or raising a toast with friends in a favourite pub or restaurant… or not gathering to marking the occasion at all.

Trust Hunnaball Family Funeral Group

At Hunnaball Family Funeral Group, whatever choices you make for your loved one’s final journey, you, and they, will always be treated with the utmost compassion and respect – whether you opt for a simple direct cremation or something fuller or more traditional.

We are always here to listen and help, including answering any questions you have about direct cremation or anything else. Speak to the friendly, professional team members in your local Hunnaball branch or give us a ring on 01206 760049 whenever you’re ready.