How to Send the Right Message When Scattering Ashes

O’Riley - Branson Funeral Service & Crematory • March 11, 2019

Scattering cremated remains has quickly become something of a tradition and for good reason. Nevertheless, some may have good questions about how to proceed.

cremations in or near Greenwood, IN

The opportunity to scatter remains is one of the reasons many turn to cremation. It’s different. It’s budget-friendly. And it makes it possible to send an unmistakable message about the deceased and the life he or she lived. These are important considerations to many families and a reminder that cremation is an effective way to remember someone. If you or someone you know is looking into cremations in or near Greenwood, IN, rest assured that there are a range of possibilities when it comes to what you do after a cremation. Scattering remains is certainly a popular solution, and some may have questions about the best way to proceed. You should never be afraid to work with a funeral home in the event you would like to discuss those questions. Professionals are prepared to work with you when planning services and will likely be in optimal position to discuss what comes next.


When scattering remains, the first order of business is determining a location. For some, this may be obvious. For others, the options may seem endless and difficult to navigate. The important things to consider are the preferences and personality of the deceased. What mattered most to them? What did they love to do? Where did they love going on vacation? Where did they get married or first propose? These are the kinds of questions you may wish to ask if you’re having any trouble narrowing down your options. Rivers, lakes, parks and forests are often considered ideal options. The opportunity to commune with nature is sometimes seen as a benefit to scattering remains. Many feel as though there is a spiritual dimension to scattering remains somewhere that is naturally significant. The big point here is that there are likely a range of possibilities and no right or wrong answers. So long as you are considering the deceased first and foremost, you are probably sending the right message.


The next thing to think about is the ceremony itself. Ceremonies that involve scattering remains are generally much less formal than a funeral or memorial service. Some may be very brief and may simply involve a few close friends or family paying their respects while scattering the remains. There is certainly nothing wrong with keeping things simple. Nevertheless, you may wish to have someone speak or read something that would have been important to the deceased. You may wish to have music played or performed. While adding something special isn’t mandatory, it is a nice way to make the occasion more memorable. So spend some time thinking about what might set the right tone and fit the legacy of the deceased. These kind of options are generally pretty straightforward and needn’t be costly.


If you are interested in cremations in the Greenwood, IN, area, consider reaching out to O’Riley - Branson Funeral Service & Crematory. We have handled a great many burials and cremations, and we hope our experience will be valuable for you and your family. You can visit us at 6107 S East St, Indianapolis, IN 46227 or place a phone call to (317) 787-8224.

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