Affordable Cremation in Toronto


Cremation is quickly becoming a popular choice for many in recent years. At Humphrey Funeral Home, we understand that choosing between a traditional funeral and a cremation service can be a difficult decision. We hope that the information below provides you with some guidance so that you can decide what works best for you. Should you require any further assistance, or would like to begin planning a cremation in Toronto today, please give us a call. The dedicated, professional staff at our Toronto funeral home is available 24/7 to walk you throughout the cremation planning process.


What is cremation?

Cremation is an option to earth burial or entombment. It is a process which reduces the remains to bone fragments by the use of intense heat. This usually takes two to three hours. Cremation takes place one cremation at a time in a chamber known as a retort. The cremated remains are further processed into a finer state which are then placed in a container. An urn is usually selected for the final disposition of these cremated remains.


Is a casket required?

The law requires that the remains be placed in a combustible container.  A selection of caskets are also available for cremation. As well, you have the option of a rental casket for use during the visitation and service, which is
then replaced with a less expensive selection for the actual cremation.



Does a cremation service cost less than burial?

The costs are as varied with cremation as with earth burial and are dependent upon the services and products which are selected. The same services are available with cremation as with earth burial and entombment, such as preparation (embalming), religious rites, visitation (often with photographs and personal items present), music, gatherings or receptions. If the urn is to be buried, graveside services are commonly held as with earth burial. If the cremated remains are to be scattered, a memorial service may be planned around the time of scattering.


When comparing similar services, there is very little difference in cost between cremation and burial. Humphrey - Miles - Newbigging recommends that you compare all costs, if cost is a factor in the decision to choose
cremation.


What should I do with the cremated remains?


There are several options to consider:


BURIAL:

The urn may be buried in a cemetery. Urn vaults are also available to provide additional protection.


INURNMENT:

Placing the urn in a niche in a columbarium. Columbaria are usually located in cemeteries and may offer the option of indoor or outdoor settings.

SCATTERING:

Cremated remains may be scattered on private property or on public property, including cemetery scattering gardens, home gardens, lakes, rivers or at sea. It is important to note that permission is often required before scattering can take place on land and please remember, cremated remains are non-retrievable once this is completed. At Humphrey - Miles - Newbigging we will often suggest that a portion of the cremated remains be placed in a smaller urn as a permanent keepsake.

 

TRANSIT ARRANGEMENT:

Some families wish the cremated remains to be sent to another country for burial or scattering. Humphrey - Miles - Newbigging can make these arrangements on your behalf, including the necessary documentation.

 

KEEPING THE URN AT HOME:

Some families may wish to keep the urn at home for a short time, or permanently, following the cremation. Families are advised to consider that there may be a lack of emotional closure and security with this decision. At any point in time, should the family reconsider and desire a more final placement of the cremated remains, all the previously mentioned options are available.


What is an urn?

An urn is a container specially designed to permanently hold cremated remains. At Humphrey - Miles - Newbigging you may select from a unique collection of hardwoods, such as oak, cherry and mahogany; metals such as copper or bronze; and porcelain.