Cremation Services

Cremation is an alternative to the burial process and it is chosen by many people because of religious beliefs, the desire to preserve the environment or it was requested by the person who died.  Cremation is also a less expensive option in comparison to a burial.  The remains are placed in a container that is combustible and placed in a special furnace called a cremation chamber or a crematory where through intense heat is reduced to bone fragments that are then crushed and pulverized to resemble course sand.  The cremated remains of an average adult body will weigh about 7-8 pounds.  Cremation is not an alternative to a funeral, but rather an alternative to burial or other forms of disposition.  Cremated remains can be scattered or buried, or they may be kept with the family in a decorative urn. 

Cremation FAQ

What is Cremation?

Cremation is the process of reducing the human body to bone fragments using high heat and flame. 

Is a casket needed for Cremation?

No, a casket is not required.  

Is embalming required prior to cremation?

No.  Florida law requires the body of the decedent either be refrigerated or embalmed with 24 hours of death.

Can the body be viewed without embalming?

Yes.   Immediate family members may briefly view the deceased prior to cremation.

Can the family witness the cremation?

Yes they can family members can be present when the body is placed in the cremation chamber.  Some religious groups even include this as part of their funeral custom.

What can be done with the cremated remains?

Laws vary by each state, local government and cemetery.  It is important to verify what is legally required wherever the final place of disposition for the cremated remains will be.   

How can I be sure I receive the correct cremated remains?

We follow Florida law which requires cremation providers have operating policies and procedures to identify a decedent from the time of transport of the decedent into funeral home cutstody until the cremation process if completed.  In addition, the cremation process is performed at our LaBelle facility and not by a third party provided so the decedent will stay in our care from time of transport until the cremation process is completed. It is also illegal to perform more than one cremation at a time.    

How long does the actual cremation take?

It all depends on the weight of the individual.  For an average sized adult, cremation can take two to three hours at a normal operating temperature of between 1,600 and 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit.

What do the cremated remains look like?

Cremated remains resemble coarse sand and are whitish to light grey in color.  The remains of an average sized adult usually weighs between 5 and 8 pounds.

Are all the cremated remains returned?

All of the cremated remains are given back to the family, with the exception of minute particles, which are impossible to remove from the cremation chamber and processing machine.

Do I need an urn?

An urn is not required by law.  However, an urn may be desired if there is to be a memorial service or if the remains are to be interred in a cemetery.  If an urn is not purchased or provided by the family, the cremated remains will be returned inside a polystyrene bag encased by a temporary cardboard container.