Are Family Viewings Possible Before Direct Cremation?

If cremation is your choice of action for your deceased loved one, there are many different types of cremation to choose from to best suit your needs and loved one's wishes. Direct cremation is a process whereby the body is immediately taken to the crematorium without a funeral service or a viewing beforehand.

Can a Family View the Body Before Direct Cremation?

Typically, direct cremations do not allow for a viewing, visitation, or service beforehand. Direct cremation is also considered to be the cheapest form of cremation, so by not having a viewing or service before the cremation actually takes place, the body does not need to be prepared prior, and this allows costs to remain low.

Direct cremation, as the name implies, is based on the fact that cremation happens directly after death. Therefore, viewing the body before direct cremation is not possible. If the family wishes to view the body before the cremation or have a funeral service with the body present, then direct cremation may not be the ideal choice, but rather more of a "traditional" cremation.

Direct Cremation & Memorial Services

Having a funeral service after direct cremation has taken place is not typical, however, this can still happen if the family so wishes. The family will then hold a memorial service. They can plan a memorial service for a later date to allow friends and other family members to come together and pay their respects. This can still have all the special and momentous aspects that a typical funeral service would have, the only difference being that the body of the deceased will not be present.

Although direct cremation is a preferred choice of cremation due to its affordability, it is entirely up to the family how and when they'd like the cremation to occur and if there'll be a service afterwards. Families are encouraged to choose what feels right to them and what will best commemorate their loved one.