More families in New Bedford, Bristol County, and the South Coast Region are curious about cremation for themselves or for family members. They have heard that cremation provides an affordable approach to final plans, but not that many people realize that cremation can be accompanied by a memorial service to allow family members and friends to take part in a healing process together. A memorial gathering can be an important first step in accepting the death and moving forward.

Direct Cremation is Affordable

Most people have heard about direct cremation, which simply means that when a person dies, they are cremated immediately. The cremains can be placed in an urn, funeral ark, or other container to be kept with a loved one or placed in a grave, mausoleum, or columbarium. Some families chose direct cremation because it is most affordable option. Others choose direct cremation for religious reasons.

Cremation and a Memorial Service Encourages Healing

More people are realizing that cremation doesn’t have to be the last step. The deceased can also be lovingly memorialized with a ceremony or gathering for the living relative and friends. Many families are becoming aware that a memorial service is a beneficial option for someone who is cremated.

A wonderful thing about having a memorial service for anyone who passes away is that it allows the healing process to begin by bringing people together. Plus, the service can take place at a time that is more convenient for the family. At the memorial service, family and friends can see photos and slide shows and share in their memories of the person’s life. The urn can be present, or it can be interred at any time. Focusing on good memories, together, allows people to move forward with acceptance so they can move through the grieving process. A memorial service can be a powerful moment for families to gather, grieve, and remember.

Package Pricing for Direct Cremation or Cremation and a Service

At Donaghy New Day Cremation and Funeral Care, we offer cremation packages as well as a full range of services with cremation. That includes a more traditional and formal memorial service or a more casual event. Either approach can include celebrants, speakers, music, and other elements, per the family’s wishes.

We have found that New Bedford area families have welcomed the idea of cremation package pricing. At New Day, families can choose from three affordable cremation packages—one for direct cremation, one for cremation and a memorial service, and one that allows for an open casket funeral prior to cremation. Some individuals find that viewing the deceased helps them accept the death and find closure. 

Learn more about New Day Simple Cremation, Simple Cremation with Memorial Service, and Simple Cremation with Open Casket Funeral.

Interment or Burial Services

With cremation, you can choose burial in a cemetery plot or interment in a mausoleum or columbarium, which are above-ground structures with niches designed for cremains. Remember the individual with a service when the urn is placed into the niche or grave.

As with other services in relation to cremation, graveside services or interment services can be held later. With the global pandemic limiting travel and togetherness off and on for two years, delays in services have been common. Now, we can see the value in having time for out-of-town family and friends to plan their trip for a memorial or interment service.

Making Final Plans for Cremation

It is important to note that cremation is available as an option for those who wish to preplan their funeral. When you and your spouse are ready to put your funeral plans together, the experienced professionals at Donaghy New Day are here to help. You can lock in the price by paying in advance, or simply ensure control over the way you are remembered by choosing the readings, memories, music, and photos you want used at your memorial service or funeral. Many couples find the planning process reassuring—even life-affirming. They find comfort knowing that their families will not have to make decisions or pay for the funeral.

Making final plans that include cremation can also be helpful if you have a parent in hospice or a late-stage illness. It is the most affordable option, which can be important if an elder has been in a care facility for a long time.

Ask Us Anything About Cremation Options

We welcome your call about cremation options, cremation packages, and the cremation process. Contact us for more information about preplanning cremation.