Cremation information:
What is Cremations?
Cremation is reducing the body to its most basic elements by intense heat.
What is the time frame for cremation?
Three things must take place before cremation can be performed. 1.) The attending physician must complete the medical information portion of the death certificate; 2.) The Medical Examiner or Justice of the Peace in the jurisdiction where the death occurred must issue his or her authorization; 3.) A cremation permit must be issued by the local registrar in the area where death occurred.
What happens to the Ashes after Cremation?
Texas has no requirements regarding disposition of cremated remains. The cremated remains (ashes) will be handled according to your instruction, or may be picked up by the survivors to do with as they wish, or will be delivered or mailed for a fee.
In what kind of container are the cremated remains returned?
The cremated remains are placed in a brown plastic temporary container at no charge to you. We have urns available.
What is a memorial service?
A memorial service may be religious or non-religious in nature, and is of great comfort and support to family and friends. A memorial service may be held anywhere such as your church, synagogue, temple, home, park, or at our Memorial Chapel in Dallas.
At the time of death , what is the cost for a direct cremation service?
The cost of a direct cremation service is presently $725.00.
How do we arrange for payment?
Payment must be made before the cremation is performed. The Brooks Family accepts all major credit cards, personal checks and cash.
Does the body have to be embalmed?
No. Texas law does not require embalming. The Brooks Family policy requires embalming, if public viewing is requested.
May I prepay the cremation cost of $725.00?
Yes, prepayment plans are supervised by the Texas Banking Department and also the Texas Department of Insurance.
Can I sign my own cremation authorization and it be accepted at my time of death?
Yes.
Do Social Security and Veteran's benefits apply to the cremation services?
Yes, a survivor to an eligible decedent may receive benefits which, at the present time, are a maximum of $255 from Social Security and $300 from Veteran's benefits. The Veteran may also be entitled to an additional $150 if a national cemetery is not used. Our office will complete and file all the benefit applications for you. These benefits are a reimbursable benefit from these institutions to you. Please provide us with a copy of the discharge papers.
What do various Religions say about cremation?
Most all religions accept cremation as a form of disposition of the body. If a specific question regarding your particular religious group's views arise, your Clergy would be helpful in answering any questions.
May I change my instructions in the future?
Yes, you may change any instructions you wish by just contacting us.
Is the modern trend toward cremation?
Most definitely. In some parts of the country, cremation is being chosen for disposition for more than a third of all deaths. Of course, cremation is practically as old as humanity, having been practiced for centuries in other cultures. Our modern approach is simply a reflection of our growing concern for the simplicity and dignity of the cremation rite. What could be more simple?
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