While full memorial and burial customs have been the norm for centuries, the trend is now moving in the direction of Funeral Cremation, with or without a memorial service. There are a variety of reasons for this movement. A primary reason given is cost.
Disposition by fire brings horrible connotations to some. However, the embalming procedure also has unpleasant implications. It seems to be a matter of personal opinion as to which is preferable.
The first consideration after a death is who to select as the funeral director for final arrangements. The remains being treated in a respectful manner is most important, whether the body is embalmed or cremated. A memorial service can be arranged to follow either process.
In fact, the cremains, as the cremated remains are referred to, can be buried in a cemetery. The ashes may also be retained in a funerary urn. The family of the departed can also scatter the ashes in a place chosen by the decedent.
This manner of disposal does not preclude a memorial service of any kind, including a graveside service if the ashes are to be buried. Some cultures demand the family witness the actual cremation. Most funeral directors will be agreeable to allowing this.
Many cemeteries build and maintain a columbarium. This is an indoor or outdoor structure that has spaces in which to place the cremains. A plaque identifies the decedent interred within.
In addition to the option to scatter the cremains, they can be kept in an urn. For a family with more than one person wanting to keep the ashes, there are smaller urns that can each hold a portion. This satisfies everyone and avoids disagreement at the time of bereavement.
Many times, disagreements among family members can be avoided by Funeral Cremation and the use of multiple urns. After the process is completed, a memorial service and scattering or burial of the ashes can be held. If burial is chosen, the deceased will be placed in the family plot with those who preceded him in death.