What to Expect Regarding the Process of Cremations in Windham, ME

Cremation of Southern Maine is committed to providing affordable and respectful cremations to the people of Windham and proudly serving them for many years. Whether you're looking for a simple cremation or something more elaborate, our team of professionals will take care of everything for you.

We can arrange everything online. That way, when it is time to pay, you are not surprised. You can use our free transportation service if you live far away from us. We want you to feel comfortable because we do what we do here at Cremation of Southern Maine. Give us a call today at 207-907-7318.

On cremation day, the person who has passed will be placed in a lightweight and rigid container that will burn easily. This casket of sorts will then be loaded into a heat-proof chamber large enough to hold the contained remains. With the doors securely fastened, the heat is turned up to very high temperatures ranging from 1200 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. This quickly causes the remains in the chamber to catch fire and burn for about two hours or so.

After the soft tissues are burned away, the visibly remaining skeletal remains are taken and processed into a more uniform texture. These ground down particles are commonly called ashes or cremated remains. The nearest relative will receive these back after the cremation procedure is completed.

Get the Answers to Common Concerns About Cremations in Windham, ME

Even with an overview of cremation services, there are bound to be other questions. Here are just a few of many that we answer often. If you have other questions or concerns about cremations in Windham, ME please connect with us at Cremation of Southern Maine.

• What is the difference between direct cremation services and more complete cremation services?
• Direct or simple cremation services are a stand-alone service offered without formal support from a funerary provider for an honoring ceremony. Complete cremation services may include everything in a full-funeral service, and instead of ending with burial, the cremation is the next step in the disposition process.
• How are the deceased remains protected to safeguard their identity throughout the cremation process?
• At Cremation of Southern Maine, our policies are set to provide a safety net that prevents human error from ever resulting in mix-ups or misidentification of deceased remains. We take extra steps to ensure this safety, including things like only bringing in one set of remains at a time and never stacking or overcrowding the deceased remains awaiting the cremation process. Our team knows that these are people who matter, and we always treat them with the highest care and deepest respect.
• Are cremations done for more than one set of remains at the same time?
• Along those same lines, no. We would never do this primarily for ethical reasons. It is also against the law for cremations to be done in a bulk fashion. So this myth is just that—a myth.
• Where can I lay my loved ones' cremated remains to rest?
• Many people find cremation services appealing because there are many good options available when it comes to handling the ashen remains. Some pretty creative ideas have been done, as a simple google search will attest. However, two ways are commonly used when it comes to the final placement of the ashes.
• Burial of the ashes is a beautiful option. Like regular burial, you will need to purchase a plot at the burial ground of your choice. You will need an urn plot rather than a full-sized plot. In many burial establishments, it is also an option to entomb the ashes above ground in a columbaria niche. One beautiful outcome of burial is that there is a place of permanent memorialization. This can be hugely supportive to those who are mourning since they have a physical location to visit to work out their grief.
• Scattering the ashen remains is another popular option. This can also be done in some cemeteries or memorial parks where there are cremation gardens. With permission and any necessary permits, this can happen in a variety of natural settings that may hold meaning for your family or the deceased.
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Hire an Experienced and Compassionate Firm for Your Cremation Needs

Cremation of Southern Maine is the premier direct cremation provider for cremations in Windham, ME. With the compassion and experience you need to have a secure and respectful disposition of your loved one, you can trust us with this delicate process. Our facilities are located at 172 State St, Portland, ME 04101. Please call (207) 907-7318 for assistance.

Cremations FAQs

Can you Plan a Funeral Service for Others?

• Yes. You can plan a funeral service for others by working with a funeral home or crematory. They will help you choose the right casket, flowers, and other items for the service. They will also help you create a program for the service and plan the ceremony. Consult with their funeral director or staff to learn more about how this is done. Whether it is cremation or burial, they can help you out with the funeral arrangements and planning.

Why Do People Choose Not to have a Funeral?

• Some people choose not to have a funeral because they believe that when a person dies, the spirit or essence of the person has already moved on and does not need or want a funeral. They just prefer to be directly buried or cremated. Some people choose cremation because it is simpler, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly than burial. Also, there are others who choose to have a small private ceremony rather than a large public funeral.

Why Do Some People Oppose Cremation?

• People who oppose cremation claim that cremation is a pagan practice, although it is not clear how or why this would be the case. Some also oppose cremation because they believe that the soul remains with the body. Others simply find the concept of incinerating a loved one to be too disturbing. Cremation has been around for centuries and is an accepted form of body disposition. Still, it is each one’s choice whether they want a cremation or not.