Cremation Services

Cremation is fast becoming the choice of many families today for good reason. Find out how you can plan ahead so your wishes are carried out. We are Morganton's only onsite cremation center so your loved ones never leave our care. 

What is Cremation?

Cremation is a two-step process. The first step of the process to prepare a deceased human person for final disposition is to reduce them to bone fragments and skeletal particles through intense heat and flame. After this process, these remains are gathered and placed in a processor, creating a uniform powder-like texture. 

Are Cremations done individually?

Yes. Laws require that only one person (placed in a casket or container) be cremated at a time.

When after death can cremation take place?

Because cremation is an irreversible process and because the process itself will eliminate any ability to determine exact cause of death, many states require that the coroner or medical examiner authorize each cremation. Some states have specific minimum time limits that must elapse before cremation may take place. 

What happens during the cremation process?

The casket or container is placed in the cremation chamber, where the temperature is raised to approximately 1400-1625 degrees Fahrenheit. After approximately 2 to 2 1/2 hours, all organic material is consumed by heat and evaporation. The remaining bone fragments are known as cremated remains. The cremated remains are then carefully removed from the cremation chamber. Any metal is removed with a magnet and later disposed of in an approved manner. The cremated remains are then processed into fine particles and are placed in the container (urn) selected by the family. The entire process takes approximately three-four hours. Throughout the cremation process, a carefully controlled labeling system ensures correct identification.

Is embalming necessary for cremation?

No. It is your choice. It may depend on such factors as whether the ceremonies selected include public viewing with an open casket, or to enhance the "memory picture" appearance of your loved one for a private good-bye; if a person is going to be transported by air or rail, or because of the length of time prior to cremation.

What is the purpose of a cremation container?

A cremation container holds a person with dignity and respect while in our care and is designed for the viewing of a deceased loved one. A container will also allow for ease of transport and proper placement into the cremation chamber. A cremation container also facilitates the cremation process and allows for safe handling of your loved one while in our care. The cremation container will be used during the identification process. Because we know you will want your loved one to be cared for with dignity and respect, we require a cremation container. 

Is a casket required?

No. For sanitary reasons, ease of placement, respect, and dignity, many crematories require that the deceased be cremated in a combustible, leak proof, rigid, covered container. This does not need to be a casket. Cremation caskets and containers are available in a wide variety of materials ranging from a simple cardboard container to solid wood cremation caskets in a variety of species. These are designed with little or no metal and facilitate the cremation process while meeting the needs of the family.

What is the purpose of an Urn?

An urn is a specialized container to hold your loved one's remains. It will keep their cremated remains together and protects the integrity of the cremated remains. An urn should be unbreakable, especially if dropped. Urns can be used for the following manners of final disposition: Internment, Entombment, Scattering, or Keepsake/Memorialization. Although you can bring your own urn, it would be advisable that you discuss this situation with us prior to cremation. The size of the urn is of great importance if you plan to have your loved one's entire cremated body included in the container. 

Is there any other preparation required prior to cremation?

It is essential that pacemakers and other medical devices (including radioactive implants) be removed prior to cremation. They may explode when subjected to high temperature, which can be hazardous to crematorium staff and equipment. In addition, any special momentos, such as jewelry, will be destroyed during the cremation process. Our funeral director will remove anything you wish to keep before the casket is transferred to the crematory.

Why is refrigeration of the remains necessary?

Due to the irreversible nature of cremation, most states require a waiting period before the actual process may begin. Refrigeration is the only alternative available, other than embalming, that will retard tissue decomposition. Refrigeration is a necessity that protects family and friends, the crematory operator and the general public from potential health hazards. 

Is identification necessary?

We do require that your loved one be positively identified prior to burial or cremation. 

This is a required procedure to eliminate the possibility of burying or cremating the wrong individual (in the event that a person was misidentified by a hospital, nursing home, or other institution prior to being taken into our care). It also helps assure family members that there will be no unanticipated questions in the future. Our basic care ensures that your loved one is treated with dignity and respect.

We provide everyone private time to say good-bye. You may elect to have an extended family member or trusted family friend make a positive identification of your loved one on your behalf, if you so desire.

Is cremation a substitution for a funeral?

No, cremation is simply a method of preparing the remains for final disposition. 

Do I have to make different funeral arrangements if I chose cremation?

This depends on how you wish to commemorate your loved one's life. Cremation can provide you with increased flexibility when making other ceremonial arrangements. You may wish to have a funeral ceremony prior to cremation, a memorial service at the time of cremation or after the cremation with an urn present; or a committal service at the final disposition of the cremated remains. Funeral or memorial ceremonies can be held in a place of worship, a funeral home, or other desired locations.

Can I attend the cremation?

Yes. You may attend the cremation at our Cremation Tribute Center. Our on-site crematory is capable of facilitating this attendance with dignity and respect. While the actual process of cremation will not be witnessed, the placement of your loved one into the cremation chamber is viewed and any ceremonies desired can be held.

What can be done with the cremation remains?

With cremation, your options are numerous. The cremated remains can be interred in a cemetery plot, retained by a family member, scattered on private property (with the owner's permission) or at a location that was significant to your loved one. It is advisable to check all regulations regarding scattering. Cremation is just one step in the commemorative process-the preparation of the remains for memorialization.

Why is having a place to visit so important?

It provides a focal point for memorializing your loved one. To remember, and be remembered, are natural human needs. Memorialization of loved ones has been a key component of almost every culture throughout human history. Psychologists say that remembrance practices serve and important emotional function for survivors to help begin the healing process.

Can I take the cremated remains home?

Yes. The remains are normally placed in an urn. Most families select an urn that is suitable for placement in a selected area of the home. Urns are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. 

Do all religions permit cremation?

Some religions prefer cremation; some do not recommend the practice; most permit you to choose.  Should you have any questions or concerns, we will research the matter for you in a private manner.

Do all funeral homes and cemeteries have a crematory?

No, actually only a small percentage of cremation service providers own their own cremation facilities. We own and operate Morganton's only onsite Crematory, so your loved one never leaves our care. 

Sossoman Funeral Home