Dispositions
Burial
Jay B. Smith Funeral Homes can handle most of the cemetery arrangements. When the decision is made as to where the burial will take place, plans to aquire a cemetery lot should be made, if possible in advance of need. We can assist you, or you can deal directly with the cemetery.
If burial in a national cemetery is desired for a veteran or eligible family member Jay B. Smith Funeral Homes can make the proper arrangements. We will need the veteran's honorable discharge from military duty (DD-214).
If you select above ground interment in a mausoleum, the arrangements for a crypt can be made in the same manner as a cemetery lot. When choosing a mausoleum, it is important that it can be properly established and financially backed, to assure its continued maintenance into the future.
If burial is to take place outside of the St. Louis area, Jay B. Smith Funeral Homes can make all the proper arrangements. We have extensive experience and affiliations in shipping across the country, and internationally.
Cremation
Cremation is a process for preparing the body for disposition, not a final disposition. During the cremation process, the body is reduced to small skeletal fragments by intense heat and evaporation. A final disposition then needs to be selected for these remains, such as burial, entombment or scattering.
When you select cremation, there are a number of options that can be considered. It is important to understand and recognize that cremation is only a process and not a replacement for the funeral or memorial service. If some type of traditional funeral service is desired, it can be arranged with cremation.
Jay B. Smith Funeral Homes can assist you in choosing a meaningful, dignified service, and the type of memorialization that best meets your individual needs.
Anatomical
If you are considering an anatomical donation, you should first discuss the idea with your family. These plans can only be made in advance of need by the individual directly with the school or medical facility. It is not possible for a surviving family member to make this donation for someone after their passing. The funeral home is needed to handle all paperwork, filings, and transportation.
It is important to consider some type of memorial service or gathering, for surviving family and friends to allow closure and support from others.
Jay B. Smith Funeral Homes can explain all options and help with the details.
