A direct cremation is a simple and affordable disposition. The cremation service provider does not provide a ceremony at the time of passing. Your loved one is collected, sheltered, and prepared for cremation. The cremation is performed, and the cremated remains are returned to the family.
Why choose direct cremation in Tacoma, WA?
More families are choosing cremation instead of burial. Cremation is a simple, flexible, and more affordable alternative to a traditional funeral. However, the funeral industry does not always disclose that more families are opting for a direct cremation instead of a cremation funeral.
It is hard for the funeral industry to accept that cremation is now the preferred disposition option for the majority of families.
For families who need to budget for funeral costs or want a ‘no-fuss’ affordable alternative – direct cremation can be the solution.
Can we still have a funeral or memorial service after a direct cremation?
Yes. A direct cremation service simply means the funeral service provider merely handles all the disposition arrangements. Once the cremated remains are returned to the family, a memorial service can be arranged. This can be held at a time and place that best suits family and friends. It can also save money on overall funeral costs when the family makes their own arrangements for conducting a memorial service.
Can we view the deceased prior to the cremation being conducted?
If the family wishes, it may be possible to view your loved one before the cremation is conducted. This is often referred to as a ‘private family goodbye’. The availability of a viewing (and any additional charge) can vary depending on circumstances and availability of location and staff.
Are there any additional costs to the $995 cremation service cost?
The direct cremation service covers everything to collecting the deceased, transporting him/her into the care of the funeral home, preparing all the required paperwork, a cremation container, the cremation process, and returning the ashes in a temporary cremation urn.
Additional costs are county costs. i.e., payment for copies of the death certificate and permit to cremate. You may also choose a cremation urn to add to your direct cremation package.
Other potential additional fees can be:
- To remove a pacemaker
- Cremating a person over 300 pounds
- Collection from a residential address
What if the deceased is at the Medical Examiners?
If the death occurred under accidental or suspicious circumstances or at a residential address, the ME may be called in to determine the cause of death and investigate. The deceased will be taken into the care of the Coroner.
Once the cause of death is determined and a death certificate issued, the deceased can be transferred into the care of a licensed funeral service provider for funeral arrangements.
Tacoma is under the jurisdiction of Pierce County, and the Medical Examiner’s office is at 3619 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98418. Phone (253) 798-6494
Is there any assistance to help with the cost of a cremation in Tacoma, WA?
There is very little budget in the state and Pierce County to help families with funeral expenses. You can try contacting Pierce County Social Services to determine if you qualify for assistance.
If the deceased qualified for Social Security, a lump-sum death benefit payment of $255 is available, which the funeral director will help you claim.
Sara Marsden-Ille is a writer and researcher specialising in the death care industry. With more than 15 years covering end-of-life services, funeral trends, and consumer funeral planning, she writes for DFS Memorials and US Funerals Online to help families make informed decisions.
