Viewings and Cremations

Although cremation services in Bells, TN. are becoming a more commonly chosen, many people are still unfamiliar with what services can accompany a cremation.  One such service is a viewing. If you are not sure what a viewing is or how it works with the cremation process, don’t worry, we are going to cover everything you need to know.

What is a Viewing?

A viewing is a service that is held before the cremation takes place.  It is a gathering of family and friends and tends to be more casual than a funeral or memorial service. This event is a come-and-go style affair meaning that guests arrive and leave as they wish. Additionally, there may be cookies and punch, or other light refreshments served.

During a viewing, the body of the deceased is in the room displayed in a casket with an open top. If guests feel comfortable, they can approach the body and say their final goodbyes. Guests can also take this time at the service to offer their condolences to the family.

Will I Need to Purchase a Casket?

When it comes to a viewing that is paired with a ground burial, the family will purchase a casket. This casket will be used in the viewing service as well as be the casket the loved on is buried in. But what about with cremation?

Here, the family has two options. One, they can still purchase a casket for the viewing only. Or, more commonly chosen, the family can rent a casket for the service. The body of the deceases will be placed in a cremation container. This container will then be placed inside the casket. To guests, it will simply look like the body is resting in the casket. After the service, the cremation container will be removed from the casket. The lining of the casket will be removed and replaced and the casket will be cleaned for another use.

Is the Body Embalmed?

If a viewing is selected with the cremation service , then the body of the deceased will be embalmed. This is to preserve it and have it presentable for display during the viewing. Additionally, services such as hair and makeup may be performed.

What Happens After the Viewing?

After the viewing, the body will be cremated as the family wishes. This may include a private gathering for the family for a final goodbye. Following the cremation, the remains will be returned to the family in a temporary urn or an urn that the family has purchased.

Things to Consider

While holding a viewing before a loved one’s cremation can be a healing and lovely event, it may not be the right choice for everyone. Some things to consider in helping you make this decision are: 

Budget – Adding a viewing will increase the overall cost. Services like embalming and a purchasing or renting a casket can add up quickly.  If cost is a concern, you may want to talk it over with the whole family and see if the benefits of the viewing outweigh the extra cost 

Religious Beliefs - Some religions have very strict rules when it comes to when and how a body should be cremated. If you loved one had any religious affiliation, make sure you are honoring their rules when it comes to this.

If you would like to learn more about cremation services in Bells, TN. or the additional services that can be held with it, give us a call and talk with one of our compassionate cremation directors.