Dannel Funeral Home provides cremation as one of many services to Texoma families.

Cremation is a centuries-old funeral rite that has received renewed interest in recent years. It is estimated that 30% of all funeral services in the United States now involve cremation. Reasons for the growing trend include

• environmental concerns
• personal or spiritual philosophy
• the possibility of less cost
• society’s increasing mobility across broad geographic areas
• growing acceptance among many religions.

Cremation is simply an alternative form of disposition. It doesn’t change the value of meaningful memorials that celebrate life, acknowledge grief, and provide a significant tribute. Services for those who wish to have remains cremated may, in fact, be no different than services for burials or interment. In recent years, people have increasingly chosen services tailored to the individual, adding “personality” and meaning for the family. Cremation doesn’t change that.

Options for arrangements are the same as for those planning a traditional burial. One of the most important things to think about for families considering cremation is that, in most cases, they can still arrange to see their loved one before saying a final good-bye. Some families wish to have their loved one prepared for viewing at a family night or during the service. Cremation doesn’t take away options; it simply provides families with alternative choices.

We are occasionally asked about “direct cremation” which means that the body is cremated without an opportunity for the family to see their loved one and without ceremony of any kind. Often, it is mentioned as a way to save “the bother” of services for families. And yet, when families aren’t given the time to say good-bye or the chance to observe meaningful rituals that bring healing, unresolved grief can occur, sometimes years later and with serious consequences. Statistics indicate that there are emotional benefits to families who are given a meaningful opportunity to honor their loved ones. We want to help you do what is best for your family.

Dannel Funeral Home assists with cremation as we do with every aspect of helping your family honor your loved one. As you wish, we will talk with you about final resting place options, scattering, urns, interment, keepsake jewelry, and services. You have many choices, and we will handle whatever arrangements are most meaningful for your family.

Common Questions About Cremation

Is a casket needed for cremation?
It is not required, although most states, including Texas, require an alternative container which is cremated with the body. There are many options in styles and materials. 

Is embalming required?
No, although if the family wishes to have a public viewing, it is necessary.

Can an urn be included in the funeral service at a church?
Most Protestant and Catholic churches allow the cremated remains to be present during the memorial service and it is often helpful as a focal point for the ceremony.

How are the cremated remains disposed of?
Laws vary, but generally remains may be buried in a cemetery, inurned, kept at home, or scattered. We will talk with you about local requirements.

Does Dannel Funeral Home have a crematory?
No, but we partner with a trusted provider in the Texoma area and even accompany the body to the crematory, wait there, and return with it on the same day.

Can I be sure I receive the correct remains?
There are stringent operating policies and procedures that govern cremation, ensuring the integrity of the process and the return of the remains. Only one body is cremated at a time.

Products
Dannel Funeral Home makes available a variety of tasteful jewelry for those who wish to save some of the cremains. As one young woman told us, she had so wanted her father to walk her down the aisle at her wedding, and since his death prevented that cherished ritual, it was important to her to have a part of him in the locket she wore. 

We can also assist you with a selection of urns and other memorial products.