Frequently Asked Questions

Cremation is the process of reducing the body to bone particles and ash through the application of intense heat and/or direct flame. Following the cremation, family will be provided options for an appropriate final disposition of the cremated remains. The cremated remains can be kept in an urn, buried in a cemetery, or scattered in keeping with current state rules and regulation.

We own and operate our own private cremation center, dedicated to the clients families choosing Rivercrest Cremation. The crematorium is located located at 13307 S. Memorial Drive just north of the Arkansas River. Click here for a map and directions.

To see photos and to learn more about our crematorium, please visit Our Facilities page.  

The longest part of any cremation process is usually securing the proper paperwork and documentation required to adhere to state laws. The actual cremation process itself lasts roughly 3-6 hours at a normal operating temperature of 1,600 to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. The exact time required depends on the size of the person and kind of container or casket selected. 

After the cremation process is complete, all cremated remains are removed from the cremation chamber and cooled to room temperature. Once cooled, all metal fragments (metal casket parts and surgical implants) are removed through visual inspection and use of a strong magnet. The cremated remains are then reduced to smaller particles and placed in the selected urn.

Cremated remains resemble coarse sand and small gravel. They are typically whitish or light gray. An average size adult's cremated remains weigh roughly 5 to 8 pounds.

Yes. We have created a warm and welcoming space for families who want accompany their loved one through the process of passing by witnessing their cremation in our Cremation Center. 

Learn about our Cremation Center

Cremation regulations vary from state-to-state. Contact us and we can discuss these regulations with you in more detail.

We have developed the most rigorous set of operating policies and procedures in order to maximize our level of quality and minimize the potential for human error. Positive identification of the deceased is assured throughout each stage of the cremation process. We only allow certified professionals to operate our cremation equipment. 

Never. Not only is it illegal to do so, but most modern cremation chambers also are not of sufficient size to accommodate more than one adult. Thus it would be a practical impossibility to conduct multiple cremations simultaneously. 

The cremated remains must be placed in a secure container. Although not a state regulation, we do require some type of suitable container or urn be provided. We have many suitable containers or urns to select from.

Many options are available. The cremated remains can be buried in a cemetery; placed in a container of sorts; kept at home; or scattered (with permission) on private property, in certain public waterways, or at least three miles off most coastlines. If you choose to scatter the cremated remains on land or water, it is advisable to consult the prevailing local authorities.

There are many special urns or containers designed specifically for this process. There are smaller “keepsake” urns that enable the cremated remains to be split up and kept by various family members, sometimes in the form of keepsake jewelry. All have been designed to hold a small portion of the cremated remains.

Special urn vaults are available if you choose to bury the cremated remains instead. These vaults protect and secure the urn from outdoor forces, such as weather. There are also urns designed to make scattering cremated remains easier for family members. They are all available in a wide range of prices and materials.

If you would like additional information or to request a catalog, please call our office at (918) 369-9595.

To see photos and to learn more about our crematorium, please visit Our Facilities page.  

Absolutely not. Embalming is only required if you select a service option with a public viewing of the body.  

Yes. For identification purposes, the immediate family may briefly view their loved one in our private viewing room prior to cremation. 

No. However, most states do require that some form of container be used for all cremations. Today, we have a variety of alternative cremation containers and cremation caskets which meet the state standards.

The number of Death Certificates you require will depend upon your family's circumstances. You will need “Certified” death certificates to complete a variety of legal transactions.

Certified Death Certificates are usually required for:

Probating the will.

Filing life insurance (each policy will need a copy).

Changing property deeds or titles.

Closing bank accounts, IRAs, mutual funds, stocks, or bonds

Death Certificates are issued by the State or County Registrar where the death occurred. It is usually beneficial to order a few extra copies for unexpected needs. Photocopies are never acceptable for legal purposes.