Cremation ___Over the last few years, the interest in cremation as a means of final disposition has increased. In response to this need, McDonald & Son Funeral Home in Cumming opened Forsyth County's first and only crematory in August 2002. The crematory is licensed by the State of Georgia and undergoes regular inspections. ___There are many options available for those who choose cremation, and it is not necessary to limit or alter the type of funeral arrangements you select because you have chosen cremation. Many families include the traditional viewing, visitation and funeral service as a part of the final arrangements, while others decide to have a simpler memorial service. ___The staff of McDonald & Son Funeral Home can help you make the decision that is right for you. If you would like additional information about cremation or if you would like to schedule a visit to our crematory, please call us at McDonald & Son Funeral Home & Crematory in Cumming at 770-886-9899 or contact us by email at info@mcdonaldandson.com. What You Should Know About Cremation 1. What are the advantages of using a funeral home which owns and operates its own crematory? ___Events such as those in Noble, Georgia, emphasize the fact that control is given up when it becomes necessary to depend on an outside facility for cremation. By owning and operating the crematory, we can control the entire cremation process. We are not dependent on anyone else's schedule or facilities, and our licensed funeral directors and embalmers oversee every step of the cremation. Our families can be assured that the process is handled professionally and with respect for the deceased and the family. 2. Can the family members be present when their loved one is cremated? ___ Yes. At McDonald & Son Funeral Home, we realize that each person deals with death and the grieving process in a personal manner. While most family members do not choose to be present at the time of cremation, it is an option which is available if desired. 3. Why do people choose cremation over a traditional burial? ___There are many reasons why people choose cremation. Among the most common are environmental considerations, philosophical reasons, cost and because they feel it is less complicated for their families. Whatever the reason, choosing cremation is a very personal decision and one that should be made after considering all the options. Our staff is available to answer any questions you may have about cremation and to guide you through the planning process. 4. If I choose cremation, can my family still have a funeral service? ___The choice of cremation does not limit the type of funeral arrangements you may make. Many people plan a traditional visitation and funeral service prior to the cremation while others decide on a simple memorial service to be held either before or after the cremation. Whatever your decision, it should be the one that is right for you. 5. Is a casket necessary? ___If a funeral service is planned, either a traditional casket or a cremation casket may be chosen. Cremation caskets are simpler in design and are typically less expensive because they are made with different materials. We have many styles of both traditional and cremation caskets available, and our staff can help you decide which is most appropriate for your needs. 6. Will an urn be needed? ___Following cremation, an urn or temporary container is used to protect the cremated remains. Cremation urns are available in a wide variety of materials and price ranges. Temporary containers are designed to hold the remains only until final disposition and are made of less permanent materials. A wide selection of urns is available, and our staff can help you choose one that best fits your situation. 7. What happens after cremation? ___The cremated remains will be placed in an urn or temporary container. The remains are then given to the designated family member or other designated person for final disposition.