Frequent Questions

A simple (or direct) cremation is the most straightforward cremation option. It involves the respectful cremation of your loved one without a formal viewing, service, or ceremony beforehand. It's an affordable choice that still allows families to honor their loved one in their own personal way.

Key responsibilities of a funeral director include:

• Arranging for the deceased's removal and transfer from the place of death to the funeral home.
• Providing professional care for the deceased, such as embalming, casketing, and cosmetology.
• Meeting with the family to plan the funeral service.
• Completing necessary paperwork, including certificates and permits.
• Acquiring copies of the death certificate.
• Coordinating with cemeteries, crematories, or other final disposition locations.
• Writing and publishing the obituary.
• Organizing aspects of the service like clergy, music, flowers, transportation, pallbearers, and specialized fraternal or military tributes.
• Overseeing the funeral service and procession.
• Aiding the family with death-related claims and resources, such as Social Security, VA benefits, and grief support.

Absolutely. Many families who choose simple cremation hold a memorial service, scattering ceremony, or gathering at a later date. Our focus is on providing the cremation itself, but we’re happy to recommend local partners who can help with planning a personalized remembrance.

To begin the process, we’ll need some basic information about your loved one, along with a signed cremation authorization form from the legal next of kin. From there, we handle most of the rest, keeping things as simple and stress-free as possible for you. You can start the process online or by giving us a call.

Maine law requires a 48-hour waiting period after death before cremation can occur. In addition, we must receive a cremation authorization form signed by the legal next of kin. Contact us for more information.