Frequently Asked Questions

People choose cremation services because they are simple and easy to purchase. Our affordable cremation services cost than traditional funerals, and they are popular for environmentally conscious reasons. People also appreciate having a greater variety of choices available to them when planning a memorial service or celebration of life after the cremation has taken place. Contact our compassionate Care Team for assistance to plan a service to honor your loved one. 

Usually, yes. Most major religions, including many Christian denominations such as Catholicism, as well as Buddhism and Hinduism, permit cremation. Since beliefs and practices can differ, we recommend consulting your religious leader to confirm it aligns with your faith tradition.

Cremation is an irreversible process and eliminates any possibility of determining the exact cause of death; because of this, legal requirements necessitate that a coroner or medical examiner authorize each cremation. Cremations can be completed after 48 hours have passed from the time of death, as specified in the Cremation Application, unless otherwise directed in writing by the Executor or next of kin requesting the cremation. Our Care Team will keep you informed through out the process.

No, you are not required to purchase a traditional casket for cremation. While a rigid, combustible container is necessary to hold the body during the process, federal law mandates that funeral homes offer inexpensive "alternative containers" (such as heavy-duty cardboard or fiberboard) as an affordable option.

No. Embalming is not required for cremation. It is usually only needed for a public viewing with an open casket. For direct cremation, providers typically use refrigeration during Florida’s required 48-hour waiting period.

We always ask if your loved one has any mechanical or radioactive devices.  If yes, it is required to remove the device prior to cremation.  If the device is left in the individual, it may rupture when subject to high temperatures.  We remove this device first out of respect for your loved one and secondly to protect our team and equipment.  It is also important to remove all jewelry or other special mementos, or they will be destroyed during the cremation process.

We have strict policies in place to ensure correct identification throughout the cremation process. When a member of our staff arrives to bring the person into our care, an initial identification band is attached around the ankle of the deceased. Included in the band are the deceased’s name, the location name, and any additional information required by state law. Then, a numbered metal disc is assigned and placed with the body. This metal disc will accompany the body throughout the cremation process and as the ashes are transferred to a temporary container upon completion of the cremation. At this point of the process a Cremation Certificate is produced with the deceased name, date of passing, date of cremation, the place of cremation, and the cremation number that was assigned at the beginning of the cremation process.

Absolutely. In fact, some religions require that the oldest son must press the button to start the cremation.  When a witness cremation is chosen, it is normally immediate family members only. There is a private viewing room for family members to witness their loved one being placed into the retort. If this is something you are considering, we recommend speaking with your funeral director and family members to make the best decision during your grief journey.

Yes. All states allow for the scattering of ashes. However, state laws prohibit scattering ashes on private property, without the consent of the property owner. Many national and state parks have permit requirements for scattering and limit scattering options, so be sure to obtain permission in advance. Scattering at sea requires being at least three nautical miles from the coastline.

Even though most family members and friends want to do the right thing, you can help tremendously by prearranging your cremation services. This may simply include writing down your wishes and providing copies of them to family and your closest friends or purchasing the exact cremation arrangement you desire. It is also important to have a "Will" or "durable power of attorney for health care" stating your wishes and naming an "agent".

The cost of cremation typically starts around $1295 and goes up from there, depending entirely on the type of service you choose. Final costs are influenced by your choice of urn, cash advance items (like death certificates and permits), and any hosted events. For a detailed quote the A. Roese Cremation Care Team are always here for you.

A visitation (or wake) is a gathering where family and friends view the deceased and offer condolences. It is a come-and-go event; you are not required to stay the entire time. Most visitors stay for 15 to 30 minutes to pay their respects and sign the guestbook.

No, embalming is not required by law for burial. It is primarily a personal choice, often selected if the family is planning an open-casket public viewing or if there are extended delays before the service.

Absolutely. We encourage you to personalize the service to reflect your loved one's hobbies, passions, or personality. Our staff can help arrange meaningful music, displays, and readings.

There are no strict dress codes, but business casual or business professional attire is appropriate. Dark, conservative colors are traditional, but simply dressing respectfully is the most important standard.

No. While the casket or urn is placed at the front of the room, you are never required to walk up to it. Many guests prefer to pause briefly at a distance or sit in the provided seating.

A burial vault or grave liner is a reinforced outer container that holds the casket. While state laws rarely require them, most cemeteries require a vault to support the weight of the earth and prevent the ground from sinking.

A viewing features an open casket, allowing guests to see the deceased. A visitation is a gathering focused on supporting the family, often featuring a closed casket, an urn, or photograph displays.

A green burial minimizes environmental impact. The body is not embalmed, it is placed in a biodegradable shroud or wicker casket, and it is buried without a concrete vault.

Services proceed in most weather conditions. We provide a large canopy tent and chairs over the gravesite to protect immediate family members from rain or intense sun.