Choosing cremation does not mean choosing less. Families can still gather, share stories and say goodbye in a way that feels right. Our directors explain every step in plain language and plan a service that honors the person you love.
Your options
Three Ways to Honor Your Loved One
Direct cremation
Cremation takes place without a viewing or service beforehand. Many families add a memorial gathering later.
Cremation with a service
Hold a viewing or full funeral service first, with your loved one present, and cremation afterward.
A memorial after cremation
With no burial schedule to follow, a memorial can be held days or weeks later, when relatives can travel and gather.
How it works
What Happens, Step by Step
- Call us. We are available at (740) 264-0563 day or night, and we will come when your family is ready.
- We care for your loved one. Our directors arrange for them to come into our care and answer every question you have.
- We plan together. We talk through the service you want, who should be notified, and the paperwork, so nothing is left to chance.
- Cremation. We work with a trusted partner crematory in Weirton, West Virginia, and our directors stay in charge of your family’s arrangements.
- Return to the family. The cremated remains are returned to you in the container you have chosen.
What Ohio Law Requires
Cremation in Ohio requires a complete, final death certificate, and at least 24 hours must pass after the death before cremation can take place. The person legally entitled to make the decision signs a cremation authorization form, which your director prepares and walks through with you.
Embalming is not required by law for cremation, and a direct cremation does not require a casket. A simple alternative container can be used. Our directors will explain which choices are yours to make.
Afterward
Urns, Keepsakes and Final Resting Places
Cremated remains may be kept at home, placed in a cemetery niche or urn garden, buried, or scattered where the law allows. Our directors can talk through the choices with you.
Cremation urns & keepsakes
How to choose a size, a material and a keepsake that feels right.
Urns & keepsakes →Scattering ashes
Where and how families scatter ashes, and what to ask first.
Scattering ashes →Memorial services
Gather family and friends to remember, whenever you are ready.
Memorial services →
Plan Ahead for Cremation
You can record your wishes for cremation ahead of time. Our pre-arrangement form takes only a few minutes and spares your family from guessing. Every family’s needs are different, so call us at (740) 264-0563 and we will talk through your options.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we have a funeral service if we choose cremation?
Yes. A service followed by cremation does not have to be any different from a service followed by burial. A viewing, a ceremony, music and a gathering afterward are all possible.
Does Shorac have its own crematory?
No. We work with a trusted partner crematory in Weirton, West Virginia. Our directors handle every step of your family’s arrangements.
How soon can cremation take place?
Ohio requires at least 24 hours to pass after the death, and a complete death certificate must be filed first. Our directors take care of the timing and the paperwork.
Is embalming required for cremation?
No. Embalming is not required by law. You may still choose it if you want a viewing, and your director will explain your options.
Can we hold a memorial service later?
Yes. Many families hold a memorial days or weeks after cremation so that relatives and friends can come together when it is convenient.
Which areas do you serve?
We care for families in Wintersville, Steubenville, Mingo Junction, Toronto, Bloomingdale, Richmond and the surrounding area, as well as Weirton, Follansbee and Wellsburg in West Virginia.
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We’re Here Day and Night
Questions about cremation? We are glad to walk you through it. Call us any time at (740) 264-0563.