One of the primary concerns the bereaved have with cremation is how their loved one’s remains will be identified throughout the cremation process, whether they bury them in a cemetery in Matthews, NC, or retain them in an urn. These concerns are understandable, as it is a very sensitive subject with a lot of tension.

Also, many people hear false horror stories of families being returned the wrong cremains, or just being given bags of wood ash or even of sand. These rumors lead to a lot of concern over the cremation identification process. However, there is no reason for these concerns as all licensed cremation providers have thorough and effective identification procedures in place to ensure accuracy and dignity.

Most licensed cremation providers are more than happy to walk clients through their individual identification process. Don’t be ashamed to ask for these details, as most cremation businesses understand these concerns and are happy to help alleviate them. It’s important for you to be 100% comfortable with your provider and their practices. It can be difficult to ask questions surrounding such delicate and potentially painful topics. If you’re unsure of what to ask surrounding identification during the cremation process, try these questions such as “How are the deceased identified?”, “How does this process change if I am not there when he or she passes?” or “How can I be sure my loved one is the one you are cremating?” You can also ask, “How can I be sure of this if I choose a cremation without a viewing?” or “In what ways do you certify that the ashes I am returned are those of my loved one?”

If the cremation provider is unable or unwilling to answer questions such as these, consider taking your business elsewhere. It’s vital that you feel comfortable with the cremation process. The majority of crematories are obligated by law to carry out two different identification processes to ensure the deceased are correctly identified based on the name provided by the authorized agent or the bereaved. First, the deceased’s name, as provided by the bereaved or authorized agent, will be clearly listed on the cremation container. Second, a metal bracelet, disk or other token will be placed in the container with the deceased. This metal tag will not be broken down during the cremation process and will remain with the cremated ashes to further ensure identification.

You can always ask for additional identification steps. For example, you can ask for a detailed explanation of the cremation process in writing, have the cremation provider do a comparison of the deceased to a current photo of your loved one before the cremation begins, ask the cremation provider to do a final identification check based on a listed unique detail like a tattoo or birth mark.

If you would like to learn more about the body identification process or Matthews, NC cemeteries, Gethsemane Cemetery and Memorial Garden is here to help. Stop by and visit us or give us a call today.

Cremation FAQs

What size is a cremation urn vault?
Most cremation urn vaults are designed to hold at least one standard adult cubic inch urn, which typically measure around 11 x 8 x 3 inches. Keep in mind that the size of the urn vault will also affect the type of memorial service you can have, as well as, where the urn can be placed following the service.

What Is An Urn Vault, and Do I Need One?
A cremation urn vault is a container that is lined and sealed with concrete. It protects the urn and remains of your loved one from water and soil pressure.

How does a body look after cremation?
The body is reduced to ashes and bone fragments. The bones are usually ground up into very small pieces. The ashes and bone fragments are placed in an urn or other container.