Cremation is fast becoming a preferred choice for disposing of the mortal remains. It is environmentally-friendly, affordable, and respectful. At Charles J. O’Shea Funeral Home, we conduct several cremations every year and know what it involved in the process. Many clients have asked us how long it takes to receive ashes after a funeral. Here’s a look at what you can expect:

Paperwork First

We can’t conduct a funeral without getting the paperwork done first. Once the death certificate has been filed at the local registrar and everything is in order, we can start the process. Funeral homes aren’t allowed to conduct cremations if there are unresolved issues around a person’s demise. For example, if a person has died because of criminal behavior, the family may have to delay a cremation for a while.

Cremation Process

Cremation takes time and it usually is done within 3-5 hours based on the person’s body mass. The funeral home will provide a more accurate timeline regarding this before so you know when you can receive the ashes. Once the body is reduced to some fragments of bone, the remains are collected and turned into ashes with the help of an industrial-size grinder.

Handing Over the Remains

The ashes are placed inside an urn and given to the family immediately after the cremation process is done. Most family members collect the urn on the following business day when the funeral home is open. You can also collect them on the same day if you have stayed behind for the process. Different funeral homes have different regulations regarding this process so be sure to consult with them first.

If you want to know more about ashes, memorial services or cremation, don’t hesitate to contact us at Charles J. O’Shea Funeral Home. We’ll be happy to answer your questions.