Receiving a loved one’s ashes might not feel easy. It will not only finalize the loss for you and your family, but you might be unsure about the best action to take to care for the remains.
As you might never have received ashes before, you might feel overwhelmed by the many options available. If you need a little help, here’s how to decide what to do with a loved one’s ashes.
Table of Contents
Review a Loved One’s Will
If a loved one wrote a will, you must consider their various requests to ensure you make the right choice for their ashes. Some people leave directions on how to care for their remains, such as scattering them at a location dear to their heart, which may include a sports field, a landmark, or a national park. However, they might have requested their ashes remain in the family home.
Talk to Your Loved Ones
If they didn’t leave any ashes requests in a will, talk to your loved ones about the deceased’s preference. Some relatives might believe they would prefer to remain at home or scattered in their favorite spot. Yet, it is the recipient’s choice to decide what to do with a person’s ashes.
If you decide to keep the ashes in a beautiful urn inside the home, you must consider others’ feelings. For example, if your children have said goodbye to their mother or father, it might cause them much pain for an urn to be on display. If so, consider storing an urn with the ashes in a private spot, such as inside your bedroom.
Pick the Best Storage for Ashes
You can store ashes in various ways. Some people might keep them in a simple container, but this might lack the personal touch you’re looking for when storing a loved one’s remains.
If you would like the final resting place to be as beautiful as your relative or friend, pick a unique, durable urn that complements their personality. If you want to add a special touch, you could purchase matching funeral guest books to record special memories of your loved one. Place this nearby the urn to enable people to have a moment with your passed loved one.
Think About Scattering the Ashes
It is your choice to keep a loved one’s ashes in the family home or scatter them outdoors. If you decide you’re happy to release them into the air, you must find the perfect spot for your loved one. If you’re unsure where to scatter their ashes, think carefully about their passions and interests.
For example, if they loved the outdoors, there might be a hiking destination, walking trail, or scenic spot that will provide the perfect destination for the ceremony. However, you might need to secure a permit before scattering a loved one’s ashes in a public or private location.
Consider Burying the Ashes
If you prefer, you could always bury a loved one’s ashes in your garden with a bronze memorial. It is an ideal option if a family member or friend feels passionate about the great outdoors or gardening. If you would like a destination to visit to pay your respects or talk to your loved one, you could scatter or bury their ashes in a crematorium.
