Can I be Both Cremated and Buried?

While most people assume you have to choose between burial or cremation at the end of life, there are more options available. One is to choose both. You can choose burial and cremation together. Below, we will discuss some options for the internment of ashes that you may want to consider for your remains. 

What is the Internment of Ashes?

The internment of one’s ashes refers to a burial or placement in a place of rest. This is usually on cemetery grounds. Often, this is for religious reasons. For example, while Catholicism now accepts cremation, it generally requires internment as well. The catholic church is against families keeping urns or scattering ashes at this time. There are a few different options for internment, which we will address below. 

In-Ground Burial of Cremains

Cremated remains can be buried just like a casket. This is more sustainable than traditional burial. Additionally, more than one family member can be placed in a cremation burial site while taking up less space in the cemetery. This is a good middle ground between more “traditional” burial and cremation. However, because of the plot and memorial headstone, this is often the most expensive option that we will discuss in this article.

Columbarium

A Columbarium is essentially a mausoleum for cremated remains. It includes niches for singular urns. Some columbariums are open to anyone in the community, but some may be private to specific families. You could also pay to have one custom-built for your family as well. 

Urn Gardens

Urn gardens are sections of a cemetery where they cultivate a garden for the scattering of ashes. These gardens offer a place for families to visit to honor their loved ones. Additionally, some cemeteries may offer burials in these gardens. This may include memorial marker stones. 

Burials on Public Property

Many public parks will allow for the scattering of ashes under certain conditions, and with the proper permits. Some parks may also offer permits for the burial of ashes. Be sure to contact the park manager’s office to discuss permits and restrictions before attempting to bury or scatter ashes in a public park.

Burials on Your Property

No law prevents an individual from burying an urn on their property. However, if you were to sell the property, you would either need to disclose the presence of remains or dig them up. 
For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.