4 THINGS YOU MAY NOT HAVE KNOWN ABOUT CREMATION

Not so long ago—20 years ago, to be exact—the cremation rate as an after-death service option in the US was about 25%. As of last year, some studies showed this figure has doubled, as predicted. To put that into perspective for you, this means one in every two families choose cremation over tradition burial services, mausoleums, and various alternate options available today.

There’s obviously something that has shifted in the last couple decades; something has dramatically shifted. Here at Davis-Struempf Funeral Home & Crematory, our professionals would like to share with you some little-known facts regarding cremation and why it’s become so popular as an after-death care option.

1. It’s inexpensive
   Most will suggest that this “trending” toward cremation options is largely due to the drastic cost difference between cremation and the traditional options (ceremony, burial, casket, etc.). Further, the Great Recession of 2008 changed a lot of financial decisions for a vast majority of the country. Cremation, simply put, costs a fraction of the cost of most other options.
2. It’s relatively secular
   Many of the major world religions have long favored body burial. In contrast, some of these same fundamental sects have historically forbidden cremation for their members. These days, though, many of these religious views have loosened and religious leaders have granted acknowledgment and approval for this practice. These loosening “rules,” along with more and more Americans identifying as secular or spiritual (instead of religious) definitely affects the rise in popularity. 
3. It’s transportable
   Our parents’ parents would have chosen their burial plot decades in advance. Each member would be buried with his or her spouse, alongside the parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and so on and so forth. But, now we all live in a highly mobile culture. I, for example, do not live in a state with any of my direct family members or extended family members. “Family plots” are becoming a way of the past. As we move (and move and move and move), transportability becomes important! 
4. Its emphasis is on personal choice
   There are only so many ways to handle a burial. But, when and if you choose cremation for yourself (as part of a pre-plan) or for a family member (in honor of their wishes or your family’s decision), there are several ways to commemorate. Here are some stats:

• 30% of cremation-choosers opt to scatter the ashes. This can be virtually anywhere. Though, be sure to check with your Funeral Director about laws that may affect some areas.
• 25% of cremation-choosers opt to bury the ashes, as with traditional burial. This is the perfect hybrid option between traditional burial and cremation—and helps the family to save a lot of money.
• 25%-30% of cremation-choosers keep the remains in an urn in a specialized, personal location (in the home, family property, etc.)
• The last small percentage uses the ashes in jewelry, art, divided among family members, etc.

What questions do you have regarding cremation services in Smyrna, GA? Do you live in the Smyrna, GA area? Please give our kind staff a call. We’d love to discuss this with you.

Davis-Struempf Funeral Home & Crematory | 1975 East-West Connector | Austell, GA 30106 | 770.944.2900