Tennessee Locations
Our affordable plans have helped 100,000's of Americans during one of life's most challenging moments. We are proud to serve in Tennessee and to offer our families options to pre arrange with us.
Scattering Ashes
Scattering ashes can be a really meaningful way to say goodbye – and there are lots of different ways to do it. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Cast them into the wind
Start by carefully decanting the ashes into a scattering tube. It’s best to do this in advance so you don’t have to worry about it on the day.
To cast the ashes, make sure the wind is flowing away from your family and friends, then hold the tube at waist height and start scattering.
2. Let the tide wash them away
Dig a shallow hole on the beach when the tide is out, then pour the ashes into it and cover over with sand. As the tide comes in, the waves will wash over the ashes and carry them out to sea.
3. Create a garden feature
Scatter the ashes over some soil in your garden and use a rake to spread them evenly. You can then place a tree or flowering plant in this spot as a colourful reminder of the person you’ve lost.
4. Raise a toast
Fill some small toasting glasses with the ashes and hand them out to family and friends. Each person can then share a short story or memory of your loved one before scattering their glass of ashes across the ground or into the wind.
5. Make a circle on the ground
Scatter the ashes into a circle in your garden or a local park, then ask friends and family members to step into the circle and say a few words about your loved one. You can then rake the ashes to spread them out across the earth.
Local Cremation FAQs
What is involved in the cremation process?
Before cremation can take place, the attending physician or medical examiner must complete and sign the death certificate. All civil and medical authorities must issue all required permits. The next of kin or other authorized person must provide the authorization to cremate. Your funeral provider can assist you through this process to ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed and authorizations and permits are obtained.
Regulations in many states also require that a certain number of hours transpire after the death occurs (usually 24 to 48 hours). After these conditions are met, the cremation takes place. Afterward, the cremated remains are placed in the urn your family selects.
Are special cremation containers and caskets available?
Yes, there is a wide array of cremation caskets to meet each family’s needs. A cremation casket is specially constructed from materials that are environmentally friendly. It looks very much like a burial casket and is appropriate for a visitation or gathering. It is cremated with the decedent. There is also a variety of cremation containers and alternative containers from which your family can choose.
Is the purchase of a casket required when choosing cremation?
Crematories require that a suitable container be used to shelter and hold your loved one before and during the cremation process. Cremation caskets, cremation containers and alternative containers are available to satisfy this requirement. In some instances, a ceremonial casket may be available for rented use during a visitation, after which an alternative container would be used for the cremation.
Does the body have to be embalmed, even though it will be cremated?
No, unless refrigeration is not available or you select embalming for a service with a formal viewing or visitation.
Can we have a funeral if we are choosing cremation?
Yes, and this is often recommended by grief counselors and families who have experienced a loss. Cremation (like burial) is a separate event from a funeral or memorial service. Selecting cremation does not diminish the important need for some type of gathering that will honor and celebrate the life of your loved one. Your friends and family can come together either before or after the cremation has taken place. Your family may choose to have a visitation prior to cremation or a service with or without your loved one’s cremated remains (ashes) present.
Senior Resources
When it comes to finding the right senior center for your loved one, it can be a bit confusing. With so many types, you may have difficulty determining the differences between each one. However, as a caretaker or family member of a senior, you should learn the differences between senior living communities so you can make an informed decision.
Independent Living Communities
Also known as retirement centers, congregate care, or retirement villages, independent living communities provide a wide range of services for seniors. These communities primarily cater to independent seniors who require only minimal medical care. These centers offer fully equipped private apartment homes that range from studios to large two bedroom suites. Seniors residing in independent living communities have the opportunity to maintain a certain level of privacy while also enjoying benefits like fine dining services, activities designed to encourage socializing among residents, and scheduled outings.
