There are different cremation services in St. Louis, MO. Direct cremation, a no-service arrangement, is the most popular. Another is traditional cremation, a service like a conventional burial that ends in a cremation center instead of a cemetery. 

Most people think of direct cremation when talking about the benefits of cremation, but traditional cremation has its advantages too. We explain some of them below. 

It’s a full-service cremation 

Not everyone is ready to give up on the standard approach to funerals. Many families still want a wake and funeral service where the body is present before the cremation. For families like this, traditional cremation is a perfect choice. 

The body is embalmed and dressed for public viewing. Only after all funeral rites have been observed will the body leave for the cremation center. 

This also makes it the ideal option if the deceased or surviving family belong to a religion that allows cremation but advises its members to have a proper funeral before the process. 

Costs less than a traditional burial 

Traditional cremation costs significantly more than direct cremation, which is why more people prefer the latter. But it’s less expensive than a traditional burial, which is the most expensive funeral service. 

Even though they are both full-service funerals, traditional cremation does not include cemetery or casket expenses. You don’t have to buy a ceremonial casket since you can rent from the funeral home. There’s also no need to pay for a burial plot, vault, or headstone. 

As a result, on average, traditional cremation costs $1,000 less than a full burial. This cremation service is the better option for those who want a full-service burial on a budget. 

Enough time for everyone to say goodbye 

A significant downside of direct cremation is there isn’t enough time for everyone to see the deceased before the cremation. For distant relatives who may derive closure from seeing their loved one’s body, direct cremation robs them of the opportunity since the cremation occurs within 48 hours. 

That’s not the case with traditional cremation. While it’s at extra costs, the service buys everyone enough time to view the body, offer their condolences, and any last words they wish to say to the departed. 

This is because, unlike direct cremation, the body is embalmed and prepared, which preserves the body for several days before the cremation. Not only does this buy you time, it also makes the body ready for public viewing. 

More room for personalization than a burial 



Finally, choosing traditional cremation instead of a full burial allows you to enjoy a key benefit of cremation: the opportunity to select a unique final resting place. 

In a burial, no matter how unique the service may be, the body ultimately ends up in a cemetery or mausoleum. Cremation enables a more personalized option. 

After the funeral rites and the cremation, you and your family members can have a scattering ceremony or celebration of life somewhere special. It can be somewhere the deceased loved spending their time or a location that speaks to their personality. 

In all, choosing traditional cremation is an affordable compromise between the high cost of a full-service burial and the simplicity of direct cremation. 

And if you want one for yourself or a loved one, reach out to us. Our St. Louis, MO cremation services are available to families of all backgrounds and cultures. Call us now to speak with our staff. They are available 24/7 to help you get started.