When a loved one is placed in hospice care, it can be a difficult and emotional time. Families often want to ensure they are fully prepared for what comes next, including making end-of-life arrangements. For many families in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and the surrounding areas, direct cremation is a simple, respectful, and affordable option. But navigating the process can seem overwhelming, especially during an already challenging time.
In this blog, we’ll explain what direct cremation is, how it works when a loved one is under hospice care, and why Going Home Cremations, with over 20 years of experience in Florida, is the trusted provider for families throughout the region.
What Is Direct Cremation?
Direct cremation is the simplest form of disposition. It involves the cremation of the body shortly after passing, without the traditional services associated with funerals, such as embalming, a public viewing, or a formal ceremony. This approach offers families several advantages:
- Affordability: Direct cremation eliminates many costs associated with traditional funerals, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- Simplicity: The process is straightforward, allowing families to focus on grieving without being burdened by complex arrangements.
- Flexibility: Families can choose to hold a memorial or celebration of life at a later time and location, on their own terms.
Unlike funeral homes, direct cremation providers cannot arrange memorial services, but they can assist with cremation logistics and the handling of ashes afterward.
How Does Direct Cremation Work When a Loved One Is in Hospice?
Hospice care focuses on providing comfort and support to individuals nearing the end of life. If your loved one is under hospice care in Tampa or St. Petersburg and you’re considering direct cremation, here’s how the process works:
- Contact the Direct Cremation Provider in Advance: Pre-planning isn’t necessary, but having a provider like Going Home Cremations ready ensures a smooth process.
- Hospice Confirms Passing: Hospice staff will notify authorities and assist with necessary paperwork, then contact the cremation provider.
- Transportation: The provider transports the deceased to a licensed crematory. Florida law mandates a 48-hour waiting period before cremation.
- Obtaining the Death Certificate: The provider helps file the death certificate with the state of Florida.
- Return of the Ashes: After cremation, ashes are returned to the family for memorialization.
Legal Requirements in Florida
- Waiting Period: Florida law requires a 48-hour waiting period before cremation.
- Permits: A cremation authorization form must be signed by the next of kin or a legally authorized person.
- Medical Examiner Approval: Required in cases of unclear cause of death.
Choosing an experienced provider ensures compliance with these laws. Going Home Cremations has over two decades of experience serving Florida families with professionalism and care.
Why Families Choose Direct Cremation in Tampa and St. Petersburg
- Affordability in High-Cost Areas: A dignified option at a fraction of the cost of traditional funerals.
- Flexibility for Out-of-State Families: Ideal for families who cannot immediately travel or gather.
- Simplicity in an Emotional Time: Relieves the stress of planning traditional funerals.
- Environmentally Friendly: Avoids embalming chemicals and burial space use.
Call to Action: Trust Going Home Cremations for Compassionate Care
At Going Home Cremations, we understand that losing a loved one is one of life’s most difficult experiences. With over 20 years of experience serving families in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and surrounding areas, we provide simple, affordable, and respectful direct cremation services.
If your loved one is in hospice care and you’re considering direct cremation, contact Going Home Cremations today. We’re here to help with professionalism and compassion.
