Cremation Services near Greenville, SC
What Exactly is Cremation?
Simply put, cremation is the process of reducing the human body to bone fragments through the use of flames and high heat. Many people think of cremation as an alternative to a funeral or memorial service, or the final way to dispose of remains, but cremation is actually an alternative to burying a loved one’s body and is not a means of final disposition.
Cremated remains can be buried, interred, scattered, and families still have the option of holding visitations, viewings, and funerals. Robinson Funeral Homes has two crematories – one at our downtown location and one at our location on Powdersville Road – and we handle each cremation with the utmost dignity and respect.
Call now for caring, personal service: (864) 859-4001
Memorial Options
Cremation offers flexibility when it comes to holding visitations, viewings, and memorial services, as well as the order in which they take place. For example, you may choose to embalm your loved one for viewing or visitation purposes and then opt for cremation and a funeral service, or you may choose to cremate first and then display the cremation urn at the funeral service. Families who wish to witness a loved one’s cremation are also welcome to do so.
Whatever your wishes, Robinson Funeral Home will take care of all the details and work with you to ensure your needs are met. We can also help you choose a memorial option if you’re not sure which is best for your family.
The Final Resting Place
Families can handle cremated remains in several different ways. The remains can be buried in Robinson Memorial Gardens or a cemetery of your choice. You can also choose to place your loved one’s cremated remains in a niche, which is a small crypt designed to permanently store cremated remains, or a columbarium which is a collection of niches. Some families prefer to keep a loved one’s ashes at home or scatter them on private property. Whatever your preferences, we can help.
Depending on how you choose to handle your loved one’s remains, you may require a casket or urn. Urns are typically used for memorial services or if the cremated remains are to be buried in a cemetery. Hardwood ceremonial caskets are ideal for viewings or funeral services held prior to cremation.
Questions About Cremation
When Can Cremation Take Place?
Cremation typically happens within two to three working days. However because it is irreversible, there is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period for cremation. There is also a 12-hour waiting period once the next of kin has signed the cremation authorization. Additionally, we cannot perform a cremation until the death certificate is complete and the coroner’s office has issued a cremation permit.
How Long Does Cremation Take?
For an average-size adult, a cremation typically lasts three hours. However, cremation times depend on the weight of an individual.
What Happens After the Cremation is Complete?
Once the cremation is complete, we will transfer all organic bone fragments from the cremation chamber into a stainless steel cooling pan. We will also remove any remaining metal items. These items may include metal from clothing, hip joints, bridge work, etc. Once the chamber is clear, we will place the remaining bone fragments into the temporary or permanent urn you select.
In What Kind of Container are the Cremated Remains Returned?
We can place the cremated remains in a cardboard container at no charge to you. If you prefer, we can place the remains in an urn of your choice. We offer a large selection of urns available for purchase.
What do the Cremated Remains Look Like?
Cremated remains resemble coarse sand and are normally white or light gray. The remains of an average-size adult typically weigh between four and eight pounds.
How Can I Be Sure to Receive the Correct Remains?
We have developed a rigorous process to ensure families receive the correct cremated remains. This 10-step identification process involves placing a numbered metal wrist band on the deceased and then placing the deceased in a cremation container with their name appearing directly on it. Once the cremation authorization and permit paperwork is complete, we will perform the cremation and log it in our record book. When the cremation is over, we will transfer the cremated remains to an urn or temporary container previously labeled with the name of the deceased. A family member will then take custody of the cremated remains.