Why Consider Cremation?
Many choose cremation for various reasons. Some are drawn to the ceremony options it offers, while others see it as a meaningful religious or family tradition. For many, cremation is also a practical choice. At Gray Mortuary, we provide affordable and distinctive options, and we welcome the opportunity to listen to your ideas and help you plan the approach that best suits your needs.
What Is Cremation?
First, it’s important to understand what cremation is not. Cremation is not a type of ceremony nor a substitute for burial. Some families hold a funeral service before cremation, while others opt for cremation first and then hold a memorial service afterward. Many choose to bury the cremated remains.
Cremation is a process where the body is handled after death by subjecting it to intense heat, reducing it to fine ash or powder. This remains is then placed in a container, and the family decides where to keep or scatter the remains.
Cremation Services at Gray Mortuary
Most importantly, we offer you peace of mind. We treat the deceased with the utmost dignity and respect, managing all details promptly and compassionately. Our focus is also on supporting families through the grieving process. We believe that meaningful ceremonies and memorialization are vital for healing, and we offer a variety of options so each family can create a service that feels right for them.
Standard Services
Our caring staff is always ready to assist. Standard cremation services include transportation of the deceased to the funeral home, storage for up to 48 hours, basic preparation for cremation, a private family farewell, professional handling, timely completion of necessary paperwork, and transfer to the crematory.
Remembrance Service Options
Cremation remembrance services can be tailored to your family’s preferences:
Funeral Service: The deceased is present in a casket. Afterward, the body is taken to the crematory.
Memorial Service: Held without the body present, often featuring an urn; the cremation has usually already taken place.
Private Family Farewell: Some families opt for a discreet, private moment before cremation, or even accompany the body to the crematory.
Military Honors: Qualified veterans may receive honors as part of their remembrance. We can arrange these for you. For more, visit Veterans Services & Benefits.
For additional details on ceremonies, see The Importance of Ceremony.
What Happens to the Cremated Remains?
After cremation, families have many options: placing the remains in a columbarium, burying them in a cemetery, scattering them in a meaningful location, or even keeping them at home. Some families place a small amount in jewelry or other keepsakes. Whatever your preference, we’re here to help you explore the options and find what feels right.
Contact Us
At Gray Mortuary, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized funeral services during your time of need. Please contact us to discuss your needs or to begin planning a meaningful service.
