A simple, respectful choice.
Direct cremation is a simple cremation service without a viewing, visitation or funeral ceremony beforehand. Your loved one is brought into our care, the paperwork and permits are handled, and cremation takes place. It's one of the most affordable cremation services available, and many families choose it because it lets them say goodbye in their own way and in their own time.
You can decide later whether to hold a memorial, plan a private gathering or remember your loved one in another meaningful way. Nothing has to be decided on the first call, and if you need immediate assistance, we answer the phone day or night. You're also welcome to ask where cremation takes place, whether a private crematory is used, and how your loved one's identity is verified at every step of the process.
Understanding the cost of cremation.
Direct cremation typically costs less than a full funeral with a viewing and burial at a traditional funeral home. Leaving out embalming, a formal viewing and a ceremony beforehand lowers cremation costs, because there are fewer services to pay for. A casket isn't required, and a burial plot is only needed if your family chooses to bury the cremated remains. That's why it's the most affordable cremation option for many families.
An alternative container holds the body for cremation and is different from an urn for the ashes. Alternative containers are usually made of fiberboard or similar materials. We currently do not require one, and our staff can explain the options.
Clear pricing before you decide.
You deserve to know exactly what you're paying for. Direct cremation starts at $695. Additional charges apply for removal beyond 50 miles, for a loved one weighing over 300 pounds, and for payment by credit card, and we'll tell you about any of them up front. When we meet, we'll first give you our General Price List, which is yours to keep, and walk you through the services and merchandise your arrangements include. The federal Funeral Rule also lets you ask for prices over the phone, and we're glad to give them.
- Removal within 50 miles is included. Beyond 50 miles, mileage fees apply, and we'll tell you what they are before anything is arranged.
- Urns are optional and available for an additional fee.
- A few situations add a charge, such as paying by credit card. We'll go through every charge with you, so there are no surprises.
A caring, family-owned team.
Choosing a cremation provider is a personal decision. Alternatives Cremation & Funeral Service is family owned and operated. Our dedicated funeral directors and care professionals take time to listen, explain your options and help you make arrangements that reflect your loved one's wishes.
- Personal guidance. Ask questions, talk through your wishes and include other family members in the conversation.
- Serving the metro and beyond. We care for families across the Oklahoma City area, with mileage fees beyond the included 50 miles.
- Room for your wishes. Choose a simple cremation or a viewing before cremation, then decide how you'd like to remember them.
Honor their life in your own time.
Direct cremation gives you time to plan a memorial without arranging a ceremony first. You might gather privately at home, plan a celebration of your loved one's life when relatives can travel, or remember them on a date that meant something to them.
Favorite music, photographs, readings and shared stories make a gathering personal. You can plan it with clergy, a celebrant, friends or family, with or without the urn present. If you'd like a funeral service before cremation instead, ask us about cremation with viewing.
Anatomical donation as another option.
For those who wish to contribute to medical research and education, cremation at no cost is possible through anatomical (whole-body) donation, when the donation is accepted. It's a separate option with its own eligibility requirements and process. See free cremation or ask our staff whether it may fit your wishes.