Cremation Frequenty Asked Questions

What is cremation?
Cremation is a method for preparing the deceased for memorialization. The process has been practiced throughout human history, and is considered an alternative to traditional earth burial or entombment. Scientifically speaking, it is a process of reducing a deceased human body to bone fragments using high heat and flame.

Why do people select cremation?
The reasons for choosing cremation are as varied and unique as the individuals selecting it. Some choose cremation based on their feelings toward environmental issues and land usage. For many, it is a choice that reflects the individual’s philosophical or religious beliefs. Others choose cremation to simplify the experience and as a cost saving alternative to cumbersome and expensive traditional funeral ritual.

Does cremation limit my choices for memorialization?
All Ohio Cremation & Burial Society's belief is that cremation does not limit your choices; rather it expands the ability to honor the life of the deceased by allowing many options for the living to pay their respects. When cremation is chosen, survivors are still able to pay their respects prior to cremation, be present for and witness cremation, hold a memorial service in a favorite location, keep the remains in the home, place them in a cemetery or scatter them in a special area. With cremation the choices are limitless and provides additional time for friends and family to gather.

Is cremation becoming more common?
According to the National Funeral Director Association (NFDA), cremation was the disposition of choice in about 36% of all deaths in the United States in the year 2008. It is projected that the percentage will rise to about 46% in 2015 and 59% in 2025. These figures represent the United States as a whole.

Do all religions permit cremation?
Religious positions vary widely regarding cremation. Some require it, others disallow or advise against it, and others take no position at all. Most, however, will allow you to decide. If you are uncertain as to the position your religion embraces, speak directly with your clergy.

Specifically, what does the Catholic Church believe?
The 1983 Code of Canon Law (canon 1176) states, “The Church earnestly recommends that the pious custom of burying the bodies of the dead be observed; it does not however, forbid cremation unless it has been chosen for reasons which are contrary to Christian teaching.” If cremation is chosen, the Church prefers that the body of the deceased be present during funeral rites, with cremation taking place later. However, if this is impossible, a funeral may take place in a church with the cremated remains present. The remains are then to be buried with full reverence in a cemetery or entombed in a mausoleum or columbarium, and whenever possible a plaque or stone bearing the name of the deceased should mark the site. The Catholic Church does not approve of scattering remains, as it does not believe that scattering meets the requirements of reverent disposition.

What is required prior to cremation?
Because of the irreversible nature of cremation, a positive identification of the deceased is necessary prior to cremation. Also, certain medical devices, such as pacemakers and radioactive implants, must be removed. Any personal items you wish to retain, such as jewelry, should also be removed. Items not removed will be destroyed during the cremation process, or otherwise disposed of in a non-recoverable manner. If requested, a small number of personal items may be placed with the deceased prior to cremation. These items will remain with the deceased and will be consumed during the cremation process. Specific requests are generally not a problem, but must be coordinated in advance.

How long has All Ohio Cremation & Burial Society been in business?
Founded in 2004 by Ohio Licensed Funeral Director Patrick Mahoney and affiliated with a firm with its roots in funeral and cremation service since 1927, All Ohio Cremation & Burial Society has quickly and quietly become one of Northeast Ohio’s leading and largest providers of simple, dignified and affordable cremation, memorial and church funeral services. With nearly 80 years experience in serving families across the State of Ohio and beyond, we have assisted thousands of families in planning and conducting funeral and cremation services. Today our focus remains on education and providing resources to caregivers and consumers seeking simple cremation, memorial and funeral services.

How do I join the All Ohio Cremation & Burial Society?
You may register now using our online Membership Registration Form.