SCATTERING
Where Can Remains Be Scattered?
As long as it is permitted by local regulations you can have a
scattering memorial service or ceremony in any place that is meaningful
to you. Gaffney Funeral Home has experience in helping facilitate
scattering discussions with the proper authorities.
Scattering Options
Many choose a traditional scattering where one or many release the
cremated remains to the wind; however, there are endless ways to
personalize a scattering ceremony.
Partial Scattering & Memorial Markers
For some families the right choice is to scatter some of the remains and
keep some remains in an urn
or keepsake
urn. A permanent plaque or other memorial noting the location of a
scattering is another option.
It is important to discuss
your wishes with family members and put specifics into writing.
Personalized Scattering Ideas
- Farewell Toast: Using special cups or glasses, cremated remains may
be tossed simultaneously in a "toast" like gesture.
- Personalized Trench: Using a trowel or hoe, some choose to draw
initials, a heart or a date into the Earth and fill with their loved
one's remains. It could be done on a beach, timed so that the remains
slowly wash into the water as the tide rises.
- Circle of Life: Remains can be poured around a meaningful object
like a tree or a group of candles. Loved ones may create a circle around
the object and remains, sharing words of remembrance.
- Returning to the Earth: A rake may be used to ceremoniously mix the
Earth with cremated remains. This is often how the remains are scattered
in a memorial garden.
- Water Scattering: By using a water-soluble urn that gradually
disperses the ashes back to the water or tossing cremated remains
directly into the water a favorite lake or river could be a loved one's
final resting place.
- Aerial Scattering: Cremated remains may be professionally cast from a
private plane over a specific location.
- Reef Construction: Cremated remains can be combined with concrete to
create new marine habitats for fish and other forms of sea life.
- Artwork: Artists may combine cremated remains with oil paint and
create a painting of choice, including portraits and landscapes.
- Fireworks: Professional pyrotechnicians have combined cremated
remains with explosive materials and create a fireworks display in
conjunction with a memorial service.
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