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Scattering Ashes – What You Need To Know

Introduction

One popular option for final disposal is the scattering of ashes. It could be on land, water, air or at some significant public space, but there are guidelines and sometimes even restrictions to consider.

In this article, we offer several options for scattering ashes, the laws you need to be aware of, as well as suggestions for the ash scattering ceremony.

Why Scatter Ashes?

Scattering Ashes on a lake

Following cremation, there are generally two common options for the remains. First, they can be stored in a permanent place such as an urn, grave, or a columbarium niche. Or you can scatter the ashes.

The scattering of ashes is easy to arrange and fairly inexpensive compared to a traditional funeral. It is also a good way to get closure as you honor your loved one.

First Thing to Consider

The first thing you should think about is the place where you want to scatter the ashes. Consider your loved one’s favorite place, as well as his/her personality.

Perhaps your loved one always loved fishing, and scattering their ashes on the water would be a meaningful send-off. If your loved one has always been one with nature, maybe you can spread the ashes in a national park.

These considerations will determine whether you’re going to spread the ashes on land or water.

Scattering Ashes on Water

Water options include the sea and also inland waters such as rivers, lakes and streams. You may be able to do this yourself or it may require the assistance of a scattering service provider.

At Sea

Scattering of ashes yourself is allowed as long as you obey the pertinent regulations. When scattering at sea, it must be at least three nautical miles from the shore.

And if flowers and memorial wreaths will be tossed on the water they must be biodegradable. If you’d prefer to send the ashes in an urn, specially designed urns that are biodegradable are available and float/drift on the water.

One note: you are not allowed to scatter ashes at beaches or in wading pools. This is mandated by the federal Clean Water Act.

After disposing of the ashes at the sea, you must notify the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) within 30 days. You must provide the location and date that you scattered the cremated remains. Here is the burial at sear report to file.

The EPA has issued a general permit about the spreading of ashes, but local regulations may may vary by state and municipality. For example, California allows the spreading of ashes to as close as 500 yards from shore.

It is best to check with the local authorities first before proceeding with scattering of ashes.

For more information, you may visit the EPA website and read their guidelines regarding disposing of cremated remains.

Inland Waters

For rivers and lakes, scattering ashes might be allowed as well. However, the EPA general permit does not cover inland waters (anymore).

You can expect varying guidelines to fall under local jurisdiction. Check with the local authorities for rules that may apply.

States may require a permit from the state agency managing the waterway. You might also be required to spread ashes a minimum distance away from developed areas or public access.

Charter Boats For Scattering Ashes

If you have no access to a vessel for scattering the ashes on water, one option is to hire a charter boat.

This is best if you’re going to do the ash scattering ceremony without the assistance from a cremated remains disposer (see next section).

Yacht at sea

We recommend you discuss your intention with the charter owner of the boat before scattering the cremated remains. ( To avoid any conflict or surprises.)

Rental fees for charter boats vary depending on the type of vessel and location, but can range from $250 to $3,000 or more. The upper end of the price range would include high-end yachts.

Funeral directors in the area may have experience and be able to recommend charter services.

Companies Provide Scattering Ash Services

There are dedicated scattering companies that specialize in spreading ashes on the water. They are equipped to provide unattended and attended services, as well as the option to view from shore.

In unattended services, you will send the ashes of your loved one to the company and they will scatter it on the water within one to four weeks upon receipt.

The attended services are for friends and family who want to board the vessel and conduct a memorial service for the deceased.

In the services where you view from the shore, you will view the scattering from the dockside, shore, or pier while the ashes are scattered by licensed cremation remains disposers.

When selecting a scattering company, make sure that they are licensed. We recommend asking how they meet the laws of the funeral board and local officials.

Unattended services will be the most economical option here.Ashes are mailed to the service provider and the complete price might be as low as $100 to $200. Attended services with friends and family can cost between $300 to $2,000 depending on choice of vessel, the number of attendees, and the length of the journey.

Aerial Ash Scattering

Airplane In the Sky

Some companies offer services to scatter ashes from an aircraft. You may watch the service on the ground, or accompany the urn and witness the scattering from up above.

Aerial ash scattering services are available all around the world. The service may take place at a far away location where you do not participate. In this case, the company may provide pictures of the scattering as well as a certificate that documents where and when the scattering took place.

Ashes are not considered hazardous material or dangerous according to the U.S. government so there are no restrictions on scattering from the sky. What the federal government does prohibit is dropping objects that may cause harm to people and properties (common sense).

Aerial Service Costs

An un-witnessed ash scattering will typically range between $345 to $600 just to perform the service. Being on site to view the event from the ground, will add to the cost and range from $445 to $955. And there may be an option to ride along and participate. This is usually limited to two people and costs $100 per flyer.

Legacy of Scattering Ashes at Sea

Scattering ashes into the sea is reminiscent of the Viking ship burials in Old Norse sagas. It was said that Scandinavians sent departed kings and warriors drifting on burning ships.

They believed that the land of the dead is laid across the waves. With this practice, the bodies were cremated and buried in the sea at the same time.

Scattering Ashes on Land

Before scattering ashes on land, we recommend researching the location.

One thing to consider is that the land use may change in the future. This could affect your ability to visit the chosen spot. Public area such as parks, may evolve and limit access and if you are going to scatter ashes on undeveloped land, consider what may be developed later.

Scattering Garden

Flowers

Cemeteries and crematoriums offer dedicated scattering gardens that are set aside soully for the purpose of scattering services. Check with your local cemetery or crematorium for information.

This service usually includes an option to place a plaque with your loved one’s name or other items that may serve in memory of the person. This may cost from $100 to $1000 depending on the location and the provider.

Private Land

Backyard

Another option is to scatter the ashes on private property. Even on private land, local restrictions may apply. The rules may be minimal, but best to be aware. The local funeral home and/or cemetery should be able to provide guidelines.

And if your choice is private land that you do not own, we highly recommend requesting permission from the owner before any plans are made.

Public Land

Public park for scatting ashes

Similarly, if you want to spread the ashes on public land, it is best to check with the authorities first. There are two types of public space; controlled and uncontrolled, which have different regulations.

In a controlled public land such as city parks, you must contact the local authorities and ask if there are requirements for ash scattering.

For uncontrolled public land such as woodlands, you won’t need to ask for permission. However, it’s still best to check with the local guidelines first before proceeding.

National Parks

Redwood National Park

The National Park Service lets individual parks set their own guidelines. They might ask you to obtain a permit first from the park superintendent for around $25 to $50.

You also might be asked to scatter the ashes in areas away from the trails and bodies of water.

Some Advice for the Ash Scattering Ceremony

Scattering of Ashes at sea

Each ceremony is unique and can be personalized according to religious affiliation, family traditions, culture, or wishes of the deceased.

In contrast to traditional funerals, the scattering of ashes does not have to be formal. There is more freedom to celebrate your loved one how you want. You can do almost anything as long as it’s legal.

Tips for Performing a Scattering Ceremony:

  1. Most likely the ceremony will take place outdoors so plan for weather.
  2. A celebrant such as a religious leader, a family member, or a friend may lead the ceremony.
  3. You may want to include elements such as scattering flowers, delivering eulogies, prayers, poems, and song/music. The ceremony will culminate with final words and the scattering ashes.
  4. Multiple people may be involved which requires passing the vessel. Take care or consider arrangements so the container is easy to transfer and won’t be dropped. (Sometimes the vessel is awkward to handle or the location may make it difficult to maneuver – especially if elderly persons are involved.)
  5. Keep in mind the direction of the wind to make sure the ashes blow away from you.
  6. Decide how you want to scatter the ashes among the participants. For example, family and friends may pass around the ashes as you each take a turn in speaking a few words before scattering ashes.

This video, by Stardust Memorials, demonstrates how to scatter ashes.

FAQ

Can I scatter ashes at sea?

Yes. You are allowed to scatter ashes at sea as long as you do it at least three nautical miles from the shore. However, make sure that everything you dispose into the sea such as flowers and memorial wreaths are biodegradable. Lastly, after you scatter the ashes at sea, you must inform the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) within 30 days about when and where you scattered the ashes.

Can I scatter ashes in public land?

Yes, but you have to ask permission first from the authorities because they might require permits before you can scatter the ashes.

Can I scatter ashes on private land?

If you own the private land where you want to scatter the ashes, then yes, you are allowed to do so. However, if you do not own the land, we recommend asking for permission from the owner before any plans are made. Even on private land, it is best practice to check with local authorities regarding any requirements or permits before scattering ashes.

Can I scatter ashes in national parks?

Yes, but individual parks have their own guidelines about scattering ashes. Some might require you to obtain a permit first. Some national parks might also ask you to scatter the ashes away from trails and people. Check the website of the National Park Service for more information.

Can I scatter ashes in rivers or lakes?

Yes, but you have to check with the authorities managing the waterway. Rules and guidelines about scattering ashes on inland waters vary per locality and state.

Can I scatter ashes from an aircraft?

Yes. Some companies offer aerial ash scattering services. You may request to witness the scattering from the ground or you may accompany the urn and witness the service from up above.

Can ashes be scattered anywhere?

No. Although there is no Federal law that regulates the scattering of ashes, there are still some regulations that exist and are imposed by local ordinances. Before proceeding with the scattering, check with local authorities first to see what is required.

Is scattering ashes legal?

It is legal but there may be some regulations depending on the area where you want to scatter the ashes.

Where is the best place to scatter ashes?

Only you can decide which is the best place to scatter the ashes. Think about the places that are significant to your loved one. If you are still undecided, you might want to consider scattering ashes at sea which is one of the most popular choices.

Do you need permission to scatter ashes?

Yes. It is best practice to seek the permission of the local offices and authorities before scattering ashes. Even if you are going to scatter the ashes on private land, it is best to have permission from the owner first.

Are there companies that can scatter ashes for me?

Yes. Many services exist that can assist in ash scattering. They offer a variety of options including air and sea. And you will have options to participate or simply observe from afar.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading! We hope you find this helpful. If you have suggestions or feedback, send us an email at info@in-valhalla.com.

Double Headstones – Complete Guide

Introduction

To remain together even in death, many couples choose to be buried next to one another and share a headstone. This kind of headstone, with two names, is called a double headstone.

What Is a Double Headstone?

Double Headstone with flowers
Source: Wallace’s headstone

A double headstone is used to mark two burial spaces beside each other or two burials interred on top of each other. They are called “double” for obvious reasons—the headstone displays two names and is large enough to represent two graves sites.

Most tombstones are available in single or double size. A double-sized headstone is also called a companion headstone. Tombstones and headstones mean the same thing.

For obvious reasons, double headstones are larger than a conventional single. This offers more surface area that can feature more text, images, symbols, illustrations, and other designs to best memorialize your loved ones. In addition, they are also much heavier and generally more expensive than the single variety.

Though most cemeteries allow the use of double gravestones, check with them about their specific requirements and guidelines. Cemeteries have strict rules about the size, style, and color that should be used on their premises, especially if the headstone is bought elsewhere.

Just like a typical single headstone, double headstones are available in many types, styles, colors, and designs. When buying, look for the design you want first and then ask if they are available in double sizes.

How Common Is a Double Headstone? 

two names on grave stone
Source: Steve Spinks (no affiliation)

Many couples choose to share a double headstone because they want to stay with each other even after death.

Typically, the double headstone is made after one spouse dies and added to later.

The remaining space for the second spouse will be left blank. Once the surviving spouse dies, their details such as name, birth date, and date of death will be engraved onsite to complete the headstone.

Another option is to have the spouses name pre-engraved onto the stone. The date of death will be left blank and added later. (See the image above for an example.)

If the spouses will be buried next to each other, the husband is traditionally buried on the left side, while the wife is buried on the right (as viewed from the foot of the grave).

A double headstone is also suitable for siblings, parent and child, or any other two people who choose to be interred together.

Double Headstone Materials

Double gravestones are available in two commonly used materials: granite or bronze. 

Bronze headstones are more expensive than granite, although any engravings will cost about the same in both materials. When choosing, it really depends on your personal preference and budget.

Granite

Granite symbolizes durability and longevity. As one of the most beautiful and prestigious materials, it is the most durable natural stone to use for a headstone. Granite has been used to make memorial headstones for hundreds of years.

Gray is the most popular color for granite. But it is also available in many different color options, including brown, pink, red, and black. The more rare the color, the higher the price. Red and gray are most common, in general, and available in many subtle variations.

Bronze

Another popular material choice for a headstone is bronze. It is appropriate for many different products and has long been used for memorialization.

Similar to granite, it is also durable and weathers nicely compared with other materials. Bronze headstones are cast and not chiseled, which makes it easier to add intricate detail and artwork to the base design.

Many statuaries that have been around for centuries were made of bronze. (Over time they develop a rich patina.)

Double Headstone Prices Broken Down By Type

Double headstones are available in several types: bevel, slant, and upright styles—same types as regular headstones. There are also lawn level double grave marker options available.

The type of headstone will affect the overall price as well as many other factors. Final price will also depend on material, text, artwork, and overall design.

Double Bevel Headstones 

Bevel headstones lay flat on the bottom like a pillow and slope from back to front. The back part is slightly higher and slopes down into the front of the marker. Because of the angle, a bevel headstone has a slight upright appearance.

You can expect a bevel headstone with a double size to costs between $849 to $1,300.

image of a double bevel granite headstone
City Monument Company

Double Slant Headstone 

A slant headstone stands upright on a base, sloping from the back towards the front. This creates the appearance of a tablet resting on a slab. Its base can be made of concrete or a similar style of granite. 

For double-sized slant headstones, the price ranges from $1,199 to $1,899. 

Example of double slant headstone on slab base
Double Slant Headstone on Base

Double Upright Headstone 

Upright headstones are the classic style of gravestones. They are typically composed of two pieces. The tall and upright piece is called the tablet or die. The block of stone supporting it is called the base. Both pieces usually have the same color for uniformity.

An upright headstone with a double size will range in price from $1,549 to $3,095.

Classic double upright grave stone
Classic Double Upright Headstone

Double Grave Markers (Flat Headstones)

Another option is double grave marker which has a lower profile. These are lawn-level markers that memorialize two persons in portrait orientation. Grave markers lay flat on the ground.

This type of grave marker costs around $1,600 to $2,350. 

lawn level double grave marker
Lawn level double grave marker

FAQ

What is a double headstone?

A double headstone is a marker for two burial spaces beside or on top of each other. This type of headstone is larger than a typical single headstone and can feature more text, illustrations, symbols, and other designs. It is also usually used by couples who want to be together even in death.

How much does a double headstone cost?

The cost of a double headstone depends on the type, material, text, artwork, overall design, and several other factors. A bevel headstone (double) usually costs around $849 to $1,300. A double slant headstone ranges from $1,199 to $1,899. And a double upright headstone costs around $1,549 to $3,095. Lastly, a double grave marker costs around $1,600 to $2,350.

How wide is a double headstone?

A double headstone will be available in several sizes so it’s difficult to pinpoint a single width. However, many cemeteries have maximum requirements for the dimensions of a double headstone. For example, in one cemetery, the maximum width of the base of the tombstone is 78 inches and the maximum width of the tablet is 66 inches.

What can I write on a double headstone?

There is plenty of room for two names on a double headstone. You can also add an epitaph, symbols, artwork, portraits, and other design elements that you want as providing it complies cemetery policies. I

Conclusion

Thanks for reading! We hope you find this helpful. If you have suggestions or feedback, send us an email at info@in-valhalla.com.

Complete Guide to Grave Liners & Burial Vaults

Introduction

The casket and headstone are common expenses for a burial, but did you know that a grave liner or burial vault can add to the cost? 

In this article, you will find out everything you need to know about grave liners and burial vaults, what purpose they serve and why most cemeteries require them. You will also discover the difference between the two, their costs, and the best way to purchase.

First, A Word About Burial Containers 

Cemetery with graves and flowers

Before diving in on grave liners and burial vaults, let us establish one fact first: both are considered outer burial containers.

An outer burial container is any container designed to surround a casket when placed in the grave. Its types include burial vaults, grave liners, and grave boxes. Sometimes these are called casket vaults or casket liners.

Burial containers were used historically to protect the casket from grave robbers. In modern times, they are mainly used to support the earth’s load.

Caskets are not designed to withstand the weight of the soil above and the heavy equipment that might pass over the grave. Also, caskets deteriorate over time which can result in the ground caving in. A grave liner or burial vault can prevent this.

Every vault is considered an outer burial container, but outer burial containers cannot legally be called vaults.

In most areas of the country, state and local laws do not require the use of an outer burial container. However, most cemeteries require this to preserve the integrity of the casket and the structure of the grave. 

What Is a Grave Liner?

A grave liner, also sometimes called burial liner or casket liner, is an outer enclosure that protects the top and sides of the casket from the earth’s load.

It does not have a protective bottom or any sealing qualities. Because of this, grave liners do not protect caskets from outside elements.

Grave liners are usually made of concrete, but the material can also be made of wood. They are also less expensive than burial vaults.

Types of Grave Liner

There are two types of grave liners:

  • Sectional burial liner
  • Solid liner box

A sectional burial liner consists of six sections that are assembled in the grave by hand. Each section is 1 ¼ inch thick and is made of reinforced concrete with thin wires. It is not waterproof or secure, but is supported by the dirt that is packed around.

A solid liner box is made of 1 ½ inch thick concrete that is reinforced with a heavier gauge of iron mesh. Compared with a sectional burial liner, this is much more secure—and also more expensive.

sectional burial liner patent sketch
From an abandoned 2004 patent offering a sectional grave liner that’s easy to construct and made with recycled plastic.

What Is a Burial Vault?

A burial vault is an outer enclosure the surrounds the casket from the earth’s load and other outside elements. 

Vaults may be constructed of different materials: concrete, metal, polymer, or fiberglass. Also, they can support up to 18 inches of soil weighing over 4,000 lbs.

As opposed to a grave liner, they have sealing qualities that provide protection from the following:

  • Water or Moisture
  • Uneven grave space
  • Bugs or Vermin

Because a burial vault surrounds the entire casket, it is stronger and more protective than a grave liner. 

Aside from effectively sealing the casket, it is also virtually waterproof because of an added copper or plastic liner. These attributes make burial vaults (typically) more expensive than grave liners. 

Burial Vault Dimensions

The following are common dimensions for a burial vault (width x length x height):

  • Standard Adult – 30″ x 86″ x 24.5″
  • Oversized Adult – 36″ x 92″ & 42” x 92″
  • Infant/Child Vault – 23″ x 60″

Burial vault dimensions will be determined by the casket size itself.

Grave Liner and Burial Vault Cost

Prices varies widely and fall in a broad range. You could expect to pay between $400 to $1,500 for a simple concrete grave liner.

Reinforced vaults lined with plastic or steel can range from $600 to about $3,000.

For a high-end, metal-clad burial vault made of stainless steel, copper, or bronze, prices can start from $2,000 and go up to $13,000.

The purchasing of outer burial containers is included in the mandatory disclosures on the General Price List (GPL). It states there that buying one is not required by local and state laws in most areas of the country. However, many cemeteries require some form of outer container.

Traditionally, grave liners and burial vaults are purchased from the cemetery or the funeral provider.

However, you can buy directly from a third-party dealer, either locally or online. Buying from an independent retailer might save hundreds of dollars.

Take note that you have a right to do comparison shopping. Your funeral home should provide an itemized price list and description of outer burial containers.

Use this chance to compare prices from various sellers before buying what you prefer. This way, you give yourself the best opportunity to consider the options and recognize the best value.

Lawn Crypts

Cross on a Lawn Grave

If you are not satisfied with the two types of burial containers, you might get more peace of mind from a lawn crypt. They are twice the height of burial liners and considered drier and cleaner. The lawn crypt has built-in drainage that prevents water from filling up inside.

Many cemeteries have them pre-installed. Because of this, it would take less time and manual labor to prepare a container for the casket. You will only need to expose the lawn crypt before burial, open its lid, lower the casket, and close the crypt once again.

Lastly, the cost of the burial plot is typically included in the price of the lawn crypt already. It would be like buying a grave space and a burial container in one.

FAQ

What is an outer burial container? 

Any container designed to protect the casket and support it from the earth’s load when buried. Both a burial vault and a grave liner are considered outer burial containers.

What is the difference between a grave liner and a burial vault?

Both are outer enclosures that surround the casket when lowered into the grave, but burial vaults create better seals compared to grave liners. Consequently, a burial vault protects the caskets from outside elements.

Is it required to use a grave liner or a burial vault?

It depends. In most areas of the country, state and local laws do not require that you buy a burial container for the casket. However, most cemeteries require this to prevent the ground above the grave from sinking as the casket deteriorates over time. Check with your cemetery about their rules and ask about their options.

Can I buy grave liners or burial vaults online?

Yes. Some online retailers can ship a burial container to your cemetery in 1 to 3 days, depending on your location. Your funeral provider and cemetery are required to accept the burial container you purchased elsewhere. Just make sure that the liner or vault you choose will meet the requirements of the cemetery, and will work with your chosen casket.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading! We hope you find this helpful. If you have suggestions or feedback, send us an email at info@in-valhalla.com.

White Caskets – Best Options Reviewed & Rated

Introduction

If you want a white casket for your loved one, but you feel overwhelmed about where to start, this article is meant for you. With four different companies and caskets reviewed, we hope this information helps make your search a little easier.

We use the word “casket” and not “coffin” in this article. While often used interchangeably, they mean two very different things.

Where’s the Best Place to Buy a White Casket?

Your best option is to purchase online.

While funeral homes and other casket retailers offer various selections, options for white caskets are seldom available. White is not a conventional color for a casket, so sellers focus on the more common choices. For metal caskets, darker colors like blue are more popular. And wood caskets are most often stained to enhance the natural wood grain.

In this review, we shortlisted four online retailers that offer white caskets and ranked them according to a variety of factors, including cost, accessibility, design, selection and customization. They are:

  1. Trusted Caskets
  2. Titan Casket
  3. Overnight Caskets
  4. Fast Caskets

These online retailers offer similar quality caskets that you will find offered directly from funeral homes. But the online sellers are able to offer a larger variety and lower prices because of less overhead costs.

Shipping

Each of these online retailers has a free shipping service included in the price. Some have faster delivery times than others, which we discuss below.

Gauge

All caskets listed have 20-gauge steel construction and are in available in standard sizes. We recommend 20 gauge over 18 gauge. (18 gauge is thicker and more expensive, but extra strength serves no practical purpose.)

Couch

All caskets are half couch as well, which is more popular than full couch—especially for steel caskets.

Gasketed Metal Caskets

The gasket is what allows a metal casket to be hermetically sealed (airtight). Our top three choices have gaskets while the final does not. Wooden caskets do not have gaskets—in fact, wood caskets cannot have gaskets—which is why this isn’t a problem. Gaskets increase the lifetime of the casket and protect the entombed corpse from dirt, water, etc.

It is a factor, however, and something to be aware of. Any deceased human body must be in an airtight container (either a gasket casket or a Ziegler case) to be transported across certain borders and internationally.

Casket Sizes

All caskets listed are considered standard size, though that varies between manufacturers. If you’re uncertain what size you need, read our comprehensive guide to casket sizes.

Trusted Caskets – Howard White Casket

This casket offers the cheapest price among the four reviewed. It has a glossy white finish and a white crepe interior. The added details of golden sculpted hardware and handlebar complement the white exterior of the casket.

Trusted Casket’s standard ground shipping takes only 1 to 2 days. If you need the casket immediately, they can fast track the shipping time to most major cities in the US.

This white casket only costs $840, making it the best deal among the top four selections.

Howard White - Trusted Caskets
Source: Trusted Caskets
Buy Now
Pros
  • Cheapest Price
  • Fast Shipping
Cons
  • None
Exterior Dimensions83″ x 28″
Interior Dimensions79″ x 24″
Weight200 lb.

Titan Casket – White and Gold Steel Casket

This white casket is another excellent option. It has a similar build and interior as the first casket reviewed. This also features all-golden hardware, including its stationary handlebar.

What sets it apart from the other online retailers is that Titan Casket offers the option to personalize the head panel. Their website is also easy to navigate and features live chat support that can be extremely helpful if you need immediate assistance when buying.

Titan Casket can dispatch the casket with the shipping company on the same day that the order is placed. The overall delivery time for ground shipping takes 2 to 6 days but they can expedite it for a fee.

This white and gold casket only costs $999.00.

White Casket from Titan Casket
Source: Titan Casket
Buy Now
Pros
  • Website is easy to access with live chat support
  • Head panel can be personalized
Cons
  • 2 to 6 Day delivery time
Exterior Dimensions83″ x 28″
Interior Dimensions79″ x 24″
Weight180 lb.

Overnight Caskets – Imperial White Casket

If you would like a white casket that features more detailed hardware, this is your best option.

The craftsmanship and detail of the gold hardware is more ornate than the first two options mentioned. Also, it features a black swing handlebar that complements the golden tones of the hardware and the white backdrop of the casket.

Similar to Titan Casket, the website of Overnight Casket also has live chat support that can help you with immediate questions and concerns when placing an order. However, we find Titan Casket and Trusted Casket’s websites easier to navigate.

Overnight Casket offers delivery within 1 to 3 days. If you need the casket much sooner, they also offer an expedited shipping service.

This white casket costs $949.00.

White Casket from Overnight Caskets
Source: Overnight Caskets
Buy Now
Pros
  • More detailed hardware
  • Website features live chat support
Cons
  • Not the cheapest option
Exterior Dimensions81″ x 28″
Interior Dimensions79″ x 23.5″
Weight200 lb.

Fast Caskets – Heritage White Casket

This casket is a solid alternative to the top three. It still delivers with its overall build and simple appearance.

What sets this casket apart from the others is its silver hardware. If you are not a fan of gold details and you would prefer a simpler design, this white casket is a good option. However, among the four caskets reviewed, this is the only one that does not include a rubber gasket.

Fast Caskets offer air shipping. Their standard delivery time is only 1 to 2 days. If you need the casket urgently or would prefer to have it shipped via air, you can get this option.

This white casket with silver hardware costs $1,195.

White Casket from Fast Caskets
Source: Fast Caskets
Buy Now
Pros
  • Air Shipping
Cons
  • Simplest design
  • Most expensive on the list
  • No rubber gasket
Exterior Dimensions83″ x 28″
Interior Dimensions79″ x 24″
Weight180 lb.

The standard delivery time stated above varies depending on your location, as well as other conditions such as weather. We recommend checking with the supplier to verify that they deliver to your state or region.

Buying Reminders

Most casket purchases involve a phone call to confirm the delivery time, location, and other order details—this is a big purchase, after all.

Always remember the FTC’s Funeral Rule that guarantees your right to purchase a casket not sold by your funeral home. Your funeral provider cannot refuse any casket purchased elsewhere and they cannot charge you a fee for doing so or receiving it.

FAQ

What does a white casket mean?

Usually, the color white signifies purity and rebirth; similar interpretations are associated with white caskets. If the concept of light and new beginnings reflects the deceased personality, a white casket is certainly an appropriate choice.

What is the best white casket?

The best white casket value you can find online is Trusted Casket’s Stanford White Casket with White Interior. The overall build, appearance, and interiors are similar to other white caskets available in the online market but this option is the cheapest at $840. Its standard delivery time is also impressive at 1 to 2 days (shipping price included).

How much is a white casket?

A white casket purchased from online sellers ranges from $840 to $1,195 and can go higher depending on style, design, size, and retailers. Usually, you can get the cheapest prices when you buy online. The quality of caskets available online is on par with those sold in funeral homes.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading! We hope you find this helpful. If you have suggestions or feedback, send us an email at info@in-valhalla.com.

Burying Cremains (Cremated Remains) – Complete Guide

Introduction

Many people choose to scatter ashes (cremains). But another common option for the final disposition of your loved one’s cremated remains is burial. Urns can be interred underground just like caskets.

Cremains is a word that has evolved from the combination of ‘cremated’ and ‘remains’ and refers to the residual matter left after cremation.

Burial of cremains requires a few more decisions.This article will guide you through choosing a location, what to expect during the process, and other general considerations when burying ashes.

Burying Cremains – Cremated Remains

Grave Marker with Flowers

One benefit of having a burial plot for cremated remains is that it allows friends and family a special space to visit. The location is fixed and generally, a marker serves as a memorial for generations to come.

By nature, scattered remains are more ethereal. Many times when ashes are scattered, it is in multiple locations or places that are difficult to visit. While this can provide a beautiful ceremony and be filled with sentimental meaning, there is no tangible resting place.

Where Can I Bury the Ashes?

There are several types of location to choose from when considering the burial of cremains. The most common choices are:

  • Cemetery
  • Urn Garden
  • Private Land
  • Natural Burial Site

Cemetery 

Image of a Cemetery with path and bench

One choice is to bury the ashes in a traditional cemetery for caskets. You simply need to purchase a plot in the cemetery and arrange for a burial. Your funeral home or cemetery manager will assist you with the specifics. If you haven’t chosen a cemetery yet, use this tool.

Depending on the regulations of the cemetery, you may bury two or more urns in a single-sized plot, since they takes up a much smaller space than a casket.

Some cemeteries might require an urn vault. Similar to a burial vault, an urn vault provides support from the earth above. It prevents the ground (and urn) from sinking, and also shields the urn from outside elements which can lead to decay.

If you want to bury the urn on top of an existing grave (perhaps above the plot of a late spouse or family member), you will need to coordinate with the cemetery.

There is not always enough space to bury an urn above a previously buried casket. (Depends on urn size, and location). If not, a cemetery might require a separate plot or recommend entombing the urn in a columbarium instead.

 Even if the cremated remains are buried in a cemetery, you may still need to secure a burial permit. Your funeral directory or cemetery manager will help you with the local regulations.

Urn Gardens

Entombed urns in a cemetery urn garden

An urn garden is an outdoor area dedicated to the burial of cremated remains. Also called a cremation garden, this space is usually located within a cemetery.

Some urn gardens feature landscaped plots that display markers. Those with unmarked plots may feature sculptures or monuments instead. 

Urn gardens may also have benches, statues, boulders, and fountains designed to hold or incorporate cremains.

Private Land

Backyard with picket fence and table

You may also bury the ashes of your loved one on private land, such as your own garden. Even a private plot you do not own, is an option, as long as you have the permission from the owner.

Laws vary depending on location. Before proceeding with a burial on private land, we recommend checking local ordinances that may apply. Your best resource is to contact a local cemetery or funeral home and ask for advice.

Natural Burial Site

Stone Marker on Cremation Burial Plot

In burying cremated remains, you may also opt for a “green” or natural burial. This type of final disposition uses biodegradable urns to limit environmental impacts. Also, it typically does not require the use of an urn vault.

Usually, you are not able to put a permanent memorial stone or tablet as a marker, but some natural burial grounds allow a named plaque. They may also give you an option to plant a memorial tree instead.

You may have trouble finding a dedicated natural burial site in your area. But they are gaining in popularity with environmental concerns. If you are interested in a natural burial but can’t find a location, you should contact your local cemetery for a solution. 

Cost of Burying Cremains

A plot for the burial of ashes may range from $350 to $2,500 depending on various factors which include:

  • City, State (availability of land – population density))
  • Location of the cemetery
  • Location in the cemetery
  • Type and size of Burial Plot

Expenses include:

  • Urn (and vault if necessary)
  • Burial Plot
  • Service

Plot prices vary from one area to the next. Plot prices are similar to real estate prices because that is what they are. Land availability and population density factor in as well as the cemetery location within the area.

You can also expect prices to vary based on plot location within the cemetery itself. The view, trees, hills, light, surrounding areas, all play a part in desirability.

Lastly, size will obviously effect the price. Single-sized plots are generally cheaper than double or family-sized plots.

For the burial of cremains, a dedicated urn garden will offer prices that are less expensive than traditional plots because less space is required.

Types of Urns for Burying Ashes

In most locations, any urn can be used for burying cremains.

However, some cemeteries might have requirements regarding cremation burials, such as the types of urn they will accept. You should always verify directly with the cemetery for specifications before buying an urn for your loved one.  

Cremation Burial Process

You must secure a plot before the burial of the urn. The cremation staff will excavate the grave space, usually ensuring a 6-inch depth in addition to the height of the urn.

They may also provide:

  • artificial turf
  • matting
  • presentation table
  • tent (for inclement weather)

You may choose to have a short graveside service that could be led by an officiant, pastor, other member of the clergy, or even a family member.

After this, the urn is placed in a vault and then lowered into the excavated opening. A family member or the cemetery staff may be charged with the lowering of the urn. 

At this point, the family may conclude the service or remain to witness the grave being filled.

To illustrate how a cremation burial would look like, Mount Pleasant Group made this informative video.

FAQ

Can you bury cremated remains?

Yes. You may bury cremated remains placed in an urn, just like caskets. Usually, there are no restrictions on the disposition of ashes such as burials.

Where can I bury cremated remains?

You may bury the ashes in a cemetery, an urn garden, private land, or a natural burial site. The usual options are burial plots located in cemeteries or urn gardens. However, you may also inter an urn on private land (such as your backyard) or a natural burial ground.(a “green” burial).

What is an urn garden?

An urn garden, also called a cremation garden, is an outdoor space set aside for the burial of cremains (cremated remains). This area is usually located within a cemetery.

What type of urn do I need in burying ashes?

It depends on your chosen location. For example, if you want to bury in a cemetery or an urn garden, these locations will have the final say on the appropriate type of urn. Usually, they will require an urn vault as well.
For natural burial grounds, it is common to use urns made of natural materials that will decompose relatively quickly. For private lands, especially if it’s in your owned plot, you may be free to choose whichever urn or container you prefer, provided that you abide by local ordinances.

Can you bury cremated remains on top of an existing grave?

Yes, as long as there is still enough space beneath the ground wherein you will bury the urn. Usually, the cemetery staff will determine if they can allow this. If they do not, you may be advised to purchase another plot or to entomb the urn in a columbarium niche.

How much does it cost to bury cremains (cremated remains)?

Burial prices may range from $350 to $2500. The price depends on several factors such as your state, the location of the burial, the type of plot you will purchase, as well as inflation.

How deep are cremation urns buried?

About six inches. Usually, you will need to secure six inches of soil on top of the urn for it to be properly buried. For example, if the urn is 12 inches high, you will need to excavate a hole that is 18 inches deep. This ensures that six inches of dirt will be placed on top of the urn.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading! We hope you find this helpful. If you have suggestions or feedback, send us an email at info@in-valhalla.com.

Steel Caskets – Complete Guide

Introduction

Steel caskets are the most popular choice for funerals. Even though there are several other types of caskets such as wood, wicker, bronze or copper, steel caskets dominate the market.

In this article, you’ll find out why steel caskets and so popular and if they are appropriate for your funeral service. Read more to find out everything you need to know first before purchasing a casket. 

We highly recommend Titan Caskets, an online retailer of high-quality caskets at affordable prices. Skip down to our full review.

In this article, we use the word “casket” to refer to funerary boxes. While “coffin” and “casket” are often used interchangeably, they mean different things.

About Steel Caskets

  • Steel Sheet Metal
  • Titan Orion Black Steel Casket

Steel is the most widely used engineering and construction material. It is used to make sewing needles, electronics, cars, and even caskets.

Steel caskets gained popularity when consumers started to look for products that last—something that they can count on. (Which is an interesting cultural phenomenon, considering the fact that caskets are not designed to preserve the body of your loved one. We discuss this transition further in our article on the difference between caskets and coffins.)

Before the twentieth century, most caskets were made of wood. However, wood is decomposable, and it’s not the most durable material available. When steel sheet metal became readily available after World War II, the manufacturing of steel caskets surged. It has since become the top choice for caskets.

Owosso Casket Company Billhead 1916
The Owosso Casket Company billhead; in the early 20th century, the largest casket manufacturer in the world. (Source: Owosso Historical Commission and Shiawassee History)

Standard Steel vs. Stainless Steel

There are two types of steel in making caskets: standard steel and stainless steel.

  • Stainless steel is the strongest and most corrosive resistant steel grade. It is more durable and expensive than standard steel.
  • Standard steel, also known as carbon steel, is more affordable because it is not as resistant to corrosion.

Steel caskets are a type of metal casket. Other variants of metal caskets are bronze and copper, which are more expensive because of raw material cost. 

Metal Gauge of Steel Caskets

Steel caskets are made in different gauges. The gauge indicates the thickness of the metal. The three common choices are 16, 18, and 20 gauge. You may also see 22 gauge.

The lower the gauge, the thicker the steel, which is counter-intuitive. Furthermore, the thicker the steel, the stronger and heavier it is. 

  • 16-gauge steel – thickest and most expensive
  • 18-gauge steel – mid-range and the most popular choice
  • 20-gauge steel – thinnest and least expensive

Both standard and stainless steel are available in the same gauges.

Gasketed vs Non-Gasketed Caskets

Any metal casket may be gasketed or non-gasketed. A casket that is gasketed contains a rubber gasket that seals the casket hermetically (airtight). It is designed to protect the body from any outside elements.

It is standard for steel caskets to have a gasket. However, some retailers sell non-gasketed caskets as well. These are usually offered at cheaper prices.

The gasket feature is exclusive to metal caskets. Wooden caskets do not have a seal because wood is porous and cannot be airtight. While a wooden casket technically could have a gasket, it would not render the casket hermetically sealed.

Note: Although a rubber gasket seals the casket and prevents penetration of outside elements such as water and dirt, you should know that it does not prevent a body from decomposing.

Why Should I Buy a Steel Casket?

Steel caskets have the following attributes:

  • Durable and long-lasting 
  • Versatile in color and style
  • Most popular choice

Metal caskets are sturdy and considered more durable than other choices. This also means they do not decompose easily compared to wood caskets. That may seam desirable, but also brings up environmental considerations – a conversation for another day.)

One reason metal caskets so attractive is because they can be finished in various styles and colors. Almost every detail is customizable. You can personalize the exterior finish, interior appointments, colors, hardware, and head panel. 

Lastly, steel caskets are a very popular choice because the price falls mid-range. While not as expensive as a bronze or copper casket they do cost more than a plain pine box. Steel caskets are a common choice because they offer high-quality features at reasonable prices (especially from online sellers) and many people consider them to be the best value.

How Much Is a Steel Casket?

According to the NFDA in 2019, the average price for a metal casket was $2,500.

But for the price of steel caskets specifically, it can range from $1,200 to $5,000. This will vary according to the type of steel used, its gauge, lining, and style.

Considering the features explained earlier, a casket made of stainless steel with a lower gauge and a gasket seal will likely be expensive. However, if you are looking for something more affordable, select a standard casket with a higher gauge steel.

This given price range is mostly quoted from funeral homes. You can still buy steel caskets at much lower prices from online retailers such as Titan Caskets, Trusted Caskets, Fast Caskets, Best Priced Caskets, and other online sellers.

Where Can I Buy a Steel Casket?

The common option is to buy directly from the funeral home. However, most caskets sold at funeral homes have significant mark-ups compared to online retailers. You could end by paying thousands of dollars for a casket that you can get at a lower cost if you buy direct.

The alternative is to buy in an independent casket store or from an online retailer. Their caskets usually come straight from the manufacturer and don’t have to worry about the overhead of a funeral home, which is why they offer lower prices.

The best and cheapest option is to buy online. Online retailers such as Titan Casket help you save thousands of dollars without sacrificing the quality of the casket.

It is normal to be apprehensive about buying online. Especially for a large expense and a purchase as important as a casket. However, online retailers can easily ship steel caskets straight to your funeral home. They can take care of everything, leaving you stress-free while saving you serious money.

Remember: It is in the law that every funeral home must accept any casket that you bought elsewhere. They cannot charge you any fee to accept and receive it.

Titan Caskets

Titan Casket is a direct-to-consumer brand. Because you buy straight from the manufacturer, you get big savings by avoiding mark-ups from middlemen.

Titan Caskets are made in the USA and built with beautiful craftsmanship. What you get from Titan will probably have the same quality, if not better, as the ones available in funeral homes. The only major difference is the price.

The purchase may be online, but the process is seamless. You will be given regular updates about your order and delivery. During difficult times, it is helpful to know that your purchase is being taken care of. Your steel casket will become one less detail to worry about.

Here are the features we like about Titan Casket:

  • Affordable Prices
  • Free 2-6 day shipping
  • Expedited shipping options
  • Fully Customizable (Try their Design Your Own Custom Casket tool)
  • Reliable Customer Service
  • Made in the USA

A few other notes:

  • They can deliver anywhere: residence, funeral homes, or other facilities.
  • Titan Caskets serve the lower 48 states of America.

Standard Steel Caskets

Titan Andover Dark Blue Steel Casket
Andover Series | Dark Blue Steel Casket with Light Blue Interior
See Price
See Full Selection

Stainless Steel Caskets

Titan Era Bronze Stainless Steel Casket
Era Series | Bronze Stainless Steel Casket with Rosetan Interior
See Price
See Full Selection
https://youtu.be/sS9Xuuun10Q

Other Online Retailers

Other online retailers have a large selections of caskets. They sell quality caskets and a lot of them also offer free standard shipping. Some recognizable third party retailers include Walmart, Costco, and Amazon.

However, if you want to skip shopping around and just go straight ahead to the best online retailer out there, we strongly recommend Titan Casket. You can read our reviews about a variety online retailers below.

Casket Online Retailer Reviews

Titan Andover Dark Blue Steel Casket
Blue Steel Caskets
red casket by Titan Casket
Red Steel Caskets
Titan Orion Black Steel Casket
Rental Steel Caskets

Funeral Homes – Choosing a Casket

Your funeral provider can help choose a casket. As a matter of fact, you can simply choose from their catalog. They may even have a limited selection on the premises, which means shipping won’t be an issue. The reason we provide information about online casket retailers is because most people don’t know it is an option. An option that provides more selection – ability to personalize – and almost always saves money.

FAQ

How heavy is a steel casket?

Steel caskets weigh about 200 pounds (90 kg). Some high-end caskets with lower gauges weigh more and can reach up to 400 pounds (181 kg). 

What is the difference between an 18-gauge and a 20-gauge steel casket?

An 18-gauge steel casket is thicker and more expensive than a 20-gauge steel casket. When it comes to gauges, the smaller the number, the thicker the steel.

How much is a steel casket?

Steel caskets can range from $1,200 to $5,000 if you buy at funeral homes. However, some online retailers such as Titan Casket sell steel caskets for as low as $879. 

Can steel caskets be cremated?

No. A steel casket cannot be cremated because it is not combustible. A cremation container must be made of combustible materials such as cardboard or wood and it must not have any metal components.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading! We hope you find this helpful. If you have suggestions or feedback, send us an email at info@in-valhalla.com.

Blue Caskets – Best Options Reviewed & Rated

Introduction

Caskets come in all different colors, but perhaps one of the most elegant forms is a blue casket.

We’ll use the word “casket” and not “coffin” in this article. While they are often used interchangeably, the have different meanings.

Where’s the Best Place to Buy a Blue Casket?

The best place to shop for a blue casket is online.

You don’t need to read through the lengthy catalogs of funeral homes or scour for local casket sellers anymore. Online casket retailers offer a wide selection and often more affordable prices.

We carefully selected the four best blue caskets available. They are available at the following online retailers:

  1. Titan Casket
  2. Trusted Caskets
  3. Fast Caskets
  4. Overnight Caskets

These online casket sellers offer the same quality coffins you get from funeral directors at much more affordable prices.

All caskets we recommend already have free shipping included in the price. These caskets are standard size. Read our full guide to casket sizes if you think you may need a different size.

Titan Casket’s Dark Blue Casket with Light Blue Interior

Made of 20 gauge steel, this casket features intricately sculpted hardware with a high-gloss dark blue finish. The light blue crepe interior is soft to touch and matches the outside appearance of the casket.

This casket is also customizable—a feature that isn’t available in other online retailers. If you want a different embroidery design on the head panel, you can choose from 150+ selections for an additional $100.

After you order, the casket will be ready for pick up or shipping within one business day. Overall delivery time takes 2-6 days. Titan Casket only offers ground shipping but they can expedite it for an additional fee.

This elegant casket with a sunburst head panel design costs $999.00. It is our first choice for blue caskets.

Source: Titan Casket
Buy Now
Pros
  • Rubber Gasket
  • Larger Sizes Available
  • Customizable Head Panel
Cons
  • No Air Freight Service
Exterior Dimensions81″ x 28″
Interior Dimensions79″ x 24″
Weight180 lb.

Trusted Caskets – Metal Casket in Blue Finish with Light Blue Interior

This casket has a glossy blue finish matched with a light-blue soft interior. The details of the golden swing bar handle add elegance to the overall appearance.

If you want more detailed hardware, or generally a casket that looks high-end, this is an ideal choice.

Trusted Caskets offers standard 1-2 days ground shipping. If you need the casket immediately, they can expedite the shipping to most major cities in the US.

This blue casket with golden details costs $1,099.99.

Source: Trusted Caskets
Buy Now
Pros
  • 1-2 days shipping
  • Rubber Gasket
  • Locking Mechanism
  • Jewel-Toned Swing Bar Handle
Cons
  • Head Panel Not Customizable
Exterior Dimensions81″ x 28″
Interior Dimensions79″ x 24″
Weight200 lb.

Fast Caskets – Sky Blue with “Going Home” Head Panel

If you’re not a fan of dark blue and you’re looking for something with a lighter shade, this sky blue casket is a good alternative.

It also has a soft blue crepe interior like the previously mentioned caskets. The head panel is embroidered with the words “Going Home”, adding a personal and sentimental touch to the coffin.

One thing that sets this option apart, is that Fast Caskets offer air shipping, making the standard delivery time take only 1-2 days.

You can get this light blue casket for only $1,195.00.

Source: Fast Caskets
Buy Now
Pros
  • 1-2 Days Air Shipping
  • Rubber Gasket Seal
Cons
  • Head Panel Not Customizable
Exterior Dimensions81″ x 28″
Interior Dimensions79″ x 24″
Weight200 lb.

Overnight Caskets – Lincoln Spruce Blue Casket with White Velvet Interior

Another alternative to crepe interiors – this choice offers a plush throw and pillow. This completes the rich blue color with a more luxurious fabric.

Aside from the sophisticated two-toned finish, the beautiful white velvet interior in French fold design is well-appointed. It’s the priciest on the list but the cost is justified considering the well-made details of this high-quality casket.

This can arrive at your funeral home within 1-3 days. If you need it much sooner, Overnight Caskets also offer an expedited shipping service.

Get this quality casket for a price of $1,199.99.

Source: Overnight Caskets
Buy Now
Pros
  • 1-3 Days Shipping
  • Rubber Gasket Seal
  • Locking Mechanism
  • Swing Bar Handle
Cons
  • Priciest among the list
Exterior Dimensions81″ x 28″
Interior Dimensions79″ x 23.5″
Weight200 lb.

Take note that standard delivery time can vary depending on your location. Also, check with the online shop if they can deliver to your state.

Buying Reminders

Take note that the FTC’s Funeral Rule guarantees that a funeral home must not refuse or charge you a fee for using a casket you bought elsewhere. They also cannot require you to be present upon deliver of the casket to the funeral home.

FAQ

What’s the best blue casket?

We recommend the Dark Blue Casket with Light Blue Interior by Titan Casket. It’s the least expensive from our list and offers the best value for money in terms of well-made hardware and impressive design. Plus, they have a modern website, and reliable customer service. blue casket from Titan Casket

Why are some caskets blue?

Simply because it’s an elegant color for a casket! A lot of casket manufacturers offer full selections available in all colors. Caskets choices are not limited to just brown, silver, or bronze. There are a lot of popular color choices to choose from and one most popular is blue.

Is a blue casket more expensive than other caskets?

Usually, no. Caskets made from similar material will share similar price points. Customized detail choices could add to the cost but color, in general, will not.

What type of casket is available in color blue?

Most often, metal caskets are available in blue (or any color). Wood caskets are usually finished in natural color stains.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading! We hope you find this helpful. If you have suggestions or feedback, send us an email at info@in-valhalla.com.

Red Caskets  – Best Options Reviewed & Rated

Introduction

Red is a bold color, often used to make a statement. It can be used to represent love, passion, and strength. If this color represents your loved one, a red casket is perfect for their burial vessel.

We have curated the top three red caskets available online, in addition to everything you need to know about buying one.

We use the word “casket” in this article and not “coffin”. Though often used interchangeably the two words mean different things.

Disclaimer: in Valhalla does not guarantee the accuracy of the prices listed below. We are a visitor-supported site and may earn if you make purchases through links on our site.

Where’s the Best Place to Buy a Red Casket?

The easiest and cheapest way to get a red casket is to purchase one online.

Obviously, a red casket isn’t conventional. Odds are you won’t see one listed in the funeral homes’ catalog since it’s not a common choice.

Fortunately, there are online casket retailers that offer a wide range of designs and attractive colors to choose from.

It is becoming more and more common for casket retailers to cater directly to the public, as opposed to manufacturers who only sell to funeral homes. And when you buy from online retailers directly with no middle man involved, the caskets come at significantly cheaper prices.

We’ve curated the top three choices. Here they are:

  1. Titan Casket
  2. Best Price Caskets
  3. Fast Caskets

The caskets below are standard size and can fit in standard burial vaults. If you think you need a larger coffin (oversized or double oversized), read our comprehensive article.

Titan Casket’s Red Steel Casket with White Interior

This red casket is affordable and well-made. It has a glossy red finish and sculpted silver hardware that adds elegance to the overall appearance. The interior is made of soft white crepe fabric.

You can add a personal touch by customizing the head panel of this casket. Simply choose from their collection of 150+ head panels and they can custom embroider one to your taste for an additional $100.

Surprisingly, this red 20-gauge steel casket has a very affordable price of $999. It’s an example of high-quality caskets available online and the value realized by buying direct. Despite the low price, all of Titan’s units are made in the USA.

Titan Casket offers free ground shipping to the lower 48 states and the total delivery time takes 2-6 days. They don’t ship via air but they still offer expedited shipping for an additional fee.

red casket from Titan Casket
Source: Titan Casket
Buy Now

To upgrade to 18 gauge or full couch, go to specs in the product description.

Pros
  • Affordable Price
  • Includes Rubber Gasket
  • Available in Larger Sizes
  • Custom Head Panel Options
  • Free Ground Shipping to the Lower 48 States (2-6 Days)
  • Website Easy To Navigate (With Live Chat Support)
Cons
  • No Air Freight Service
  • Full couch is an upgrade
Exterior Dimensions83″ x 28″
Interior Dimensions79″ x 24″
Weight180 lb.

Best Price Caskets – Red Casket with White Velvet & Silver Hardware

They are called Best Price Caskets for a reason. This beautiful red casket features silver column hardware and an elegant black handlebar. The white interior is made of velvet (a more expensive fabric than crepe) designed in a French Fold pattern. 

This unit by Best Price Casket has slightly more details in hardware compared to our first choice by Titan.

But their difference does not end there. This casket is made of 18-gauge steel which is about 30% thicker than the 20-gauge variant.

With these better features in terms of hardware and materials, the casket is still a good value at a price of $1,195.

Free ground shipping is available, but depends on the date of the funeral. If you need a faster delivery, they also offer expedited air shipping that takes 1 to 2 days.

red casket from Best Price Caskets
Source: Best Price Caskets
Buy Full Couch
Buy Half Couch
Pros
  • Includes Rubber Gasket
  • Locking Mechanism
  • Continuous Weld Construction (Completely Seals the Bottom)
  • 18-Gauge Steel Construction
Cons
  • Free Ground Shipping May Take Up To 5 to 12 Days
  • Website Is Difficult To Navigate
Exterior Dimensions81″ x 28″
Interior Dimensions79″ x 24″
Weight240 lb.

Fast Caskets – Custom Painted Casket 

If you want to customize a casket to your liking, this is your optimal choice.

Fast Caskets offer an option for Custom Painted Caskets. Which means you can get any finish you want. For instance, if you want a casket in bright red for more intensity and boldness (pictured below) they can customize that for you.

Customization is not limited to color alone. You can also have your casket custom-made with any design or pattern that you can imagine. And choices are not limited to the finish – the interior can be modified as well. With Fast Caskets, you can completely personalize all options for a completely unique result.

The individual attention comes at a price. This custom painted casket below costs $3,500. This could still be a reasonable price if you have more specific considerations. And compared to what is available directly from your funeral home, this could still be a better value.

Fast Caskets offer free air shipping for the first 20 miles of delivery. Standard shipping time takes 1 to 2 days but it could stretch up to 4 days depending on weather or transit delays.

red casket from Fast Caskets
Source: Fast Caskets
Buy Now
Pros
  • Free Air Delivery (For the First 20 Miles)
  • Locking Mechanism
  • Continuous Weld Construction (Completely Seals the bottom of the Casket)
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Non-Gasketed
  • Made of 20-Gauge Steel Only
Exterior Dimensions83″ x 28″
Interior Dimensions79″ x 24″
Weight180 lb.

Take note that standard delivery time can vary depending on your location. Also, don’t forget to check with the online shop if they can deliver to your state address.

Best Option: Titan Casket

For the best and most cost-effective red casket, Titan Casket is our top choice. They offer a wide variety and affordable prices for high-quality caskets that are made in the USA.

One major selling point is that the website is easy to navigate. They also offer exceptional customer service with live chat support that’s readily available.

Another benefit is that their free standard shipping has a reliable time frame of 2 to 6 days. Even though they don’t offer air freight service, you can still get fast delivery via their expedited shipping – a single dedicated van and driver will deliver the casket for you.

Lastly, they have a lot of room for customization without sacrificing the cheap price. Aside from personalizing the head panel, you can also request an 18-gauge steel construction for only $150. Or better yet, you can design your own custom casket by selecting all the details that you want for your red casket.

Buying Reminders

Remember that a funeral home must not refuse or charge you a fee for using a casket you bought elsewhere. This is guaranteed by the FTC’s Funeral Rule. Funeral homes may not require you to be present for the delivery of the casket to the funeral home.

FAQ

Why are some caskets red?

Although red is an uncommon choice for a casket, it’s an attractive option especially if the color represents the personality of the deceased.

What’s the best red casket?

The best out there is the Orion Series Red Steel Casket with White Interior by Titan Casket. It is extremely cheap, well-made, and guaranteed manufactured in the USA.

Do caskets come in all colors?

Almost! A lot of caskets come in a myriad of color options (especially metal caskets). Even if you cannot find a casket with your chosen color, you can always have a casket custom-made to your liking.

Is a red casket more expensive than other colors?

Most of the time, no. A lot of caskets that are made of similar materials and designs have similar prices, regardless of their color. For instance, Titan Casket has the Orion Series where caskets are available in different colors but they all cost the same.

What kind of caskets are available in custom colors?

Usually metal caskets. Metal is much easier to make into different colors because it is more flexible than wood. Further, wooden caskets are usually finished with stain in their natural color which is brown.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading! We hope you find this helpful. If you have suggestions or feedback, send us an email at info@in-valhalla.com.

Best Funeral Prayers for Funeral Cards & Tributes

Introduction

Funeral prayers can be a source of peace, hope, and encouragement for families and friends as they grieve the passing of a loved one. It is through prayer that mourners can express their faith and seek reassurance.

Below is a collection of prayers and verses that you might include in a funeral card or tribute.

About Funeral Cards

Three Crosses at Sunset

Skip down to…

Best Prayers List
Short Proverbs

Funeral card may also refer to a funeral program, which is a pamphlet containing the order of service and the details of events that will take place during the funeral service.

The funeral card is printed on decorative paper and can be designed according to a theme you prefer. They are often filled with religious references containing prayers, scriptures, and verses depending on the religion of the deceased.

There is also room for you to personalize a funeral card by adding favorite portraits of the deceased, poems, passages and other personal details of tribute.

Although a funeral card is not required, it can help those who attend the funeral service to follow along with the ceremony. It will also encourage participation during the service.

After the funeral, mourners can keep the cards as a remembrance of the person who died.

Funeral Cards vs Memorial Cards

Funeral cards are often associated with memorial cards that are available at memorial services. However, they serve slightly different purposes.

Funeral Service vs Memorial Service

First, let’s distinguish between a funeral service and a memorial service.

  • A funeral service usually takes place with the body of the deceased present, while a memorial service takes place without the body present.
  • Funeral services may refer to the traditional burial service or the ceremony conducted in a chapel. It is usually conducted a few days after the death has occurred.
  • On the other hand, memorial services are gatherings meant to memorialize the life of the deceased and can take place any time. They often take place well after burial or interment and do not include the body.
  • A funeral service is a traditional structured ceremony and often includes a wake, visitation, prayer services, and Mass. Whereas a memorial service is more modern and can be personalized and hosted by the family.

Depending on religion, funeral cards most often need religious poems and prayers derived from the Scripture. Memorial cards, on the other hand, can include secular poems and prayers that are not directly from the Bible.

Funeral cards can be made into booklets or pamphlets depending on the extent of the content that will be included. Funeral cards also tend to be more devotional because they center around the religious rites in celebration of the deceased.

Cremation services and funerals differ from normal services because there is no body present, making memorials the more popular choice.

Funeral Cards vs Prayer Cards

The practice of giving out funeral cards to those who attend the funeral service came from the old tradition of the Catholic Church providing prayer cards. (See this article you’re interested in Catholic funeral hymns as well.)

Prayer cards usually bear images of saints or religious scenes and verses and prayers to commemorate special moments.

Prayer cards are also distributed at funerals but they do not feature the information of the person who died. It may bear a few details of the deceased such as the names and relevant dates, but its purpose is more to serve as a reminder to pray for the soul of the departed.

Funeral cards are more extensive in detail, and often feature photos of the deceased instead of other religious images. Aside from prayers and verses, it may also include poems or other relevant details relating to the deceased.

Popular Funeral Card Prayers

Here are some of the favorite prayers featured in funeral cards. Your funeral director or professional will also be a good source for inspiration.

A Prayer For The Dead

God our Father,
Your power brings us to birth,
Your providence guides our lives,
and by Your command we return to dust.
Lord, those who die still live in Your presence,
their lives change but do not end.
I pray in hope for my family,
relatives and friends,
and for all the dead known to You alone.
In company with Christ,
Who died and now lives,
may they rejoice in Your kingdom,
where all our tears are wiped away.
Unite us together again in one family,
to sing Your praise forever and ever.
Amen.

Heavenly Father

Heavenly Father,
you have not made us for darkness and death,
but for life with you for ever.
Without you we have nothing to hope for;
with you we have nothing to fear.
Speak to us now your words of eternal life.
Lift us from anxiety and guilt
to the light and peace of your presence,
and set the glory of your love before us;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Lord Of All We Praise You

Lord of all, we praise you
for all who have entered into their rest
and reached the promised land where you are seen face to face.
Give us grace to follow in their footsteps
as they followed in the way of your Son.
Thank you for the memory of those you have called to yourself:
by each memory, turn our hearts from things seen to things unseen,
and lead us till we come to the eternal rest
you have prepared for your people,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Psalm 121

I will lift mine eyes unto the hills
from whence cometh my help.
My help cometh from the Lord,
which made heaven and earth.
He will not suffer thy foot to be moved:
he that keepeth thee
will not slumber nor sleep.
The Lord is thy keeper:
the Lord is thy shade upon thy hand.
The sun shall not smite thee by day,
nor the moon by night.
The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil;
He shall preserve thy soul.
The Lord shall preserve thy going out
and thy coming in from this time forth,
and even for evermore.

Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures;
he leadeth me beside still waters.
He restoreth my soul;
he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness
for His name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley
of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil;
for thou art with me.
Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me
in the presence of mine enemies;
thou anointest my head with oil;
my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life;
and I will dwell in
the house of the Lord forever.

Prayers that Name the Loved One

Some prayers are designed to mention the name of the person who died. Personalizing the prayer can be meaningful and help mourners connect as they pray for the soul of the departed.

Merciful Father And Lord Of All Life

Merciful Father and Lord of all life,
we praise you that we are made in your image
and reflect your truth and light.
We thank you for the life of your child – – – – – – – ,
for the love he/she received from you
and showed among us.
Above all, we rejoice at your gracious promise
to all your servants, living and departed,
that we shall rise again at the coming of Christ.
And we ask that in due time
we may share with our brother/sister that clearer vision,
when we shall see your face in the same Christ our Lord.
Amen.

The Death Of Someone We Love

The death of someone we love and care about Is like the death of part of us. No one else will ever call out from within us Quite the same responses, the same feelings or actions or ideas. Their death is an ending of one part of a story. Lord as we look back over – – – – – – – -‘s life We ask what we have received, what we can appropriate

And continue on in our own lives and what must be laid to rest. Our love for his/her reminds us that our sharing In one another’s lives brings both support and pain. Our being parted from him/her reminds us of our own mortality And that your love is enduring.

We thank you that our love for – – – – – – – draws us together And gives us a new appreciation of one another And of the beauty and fragility of relationships Which mirror your grace and goodness to us.

Lord, time’s tide may wash his/her footprints from the shore But not our love for him/her nor the influence of his/her life upon our own Nor the ways in which they will ever be a sign for us Of those things which really matter-which are eternal. Hear this prayer for your love’s sake. Amen.

Lord God Creator Of All

Lord God, creator of all,
you have made us creatures of this earth
but have also promised us a share in life eternal:
receive our thanks and praise
that, through the passion and death of Christ,
your child – – – – – , our brother/sister,
whom we commend into your hands today,
shares with your saints in the joy of heaven,
where there is neither sorrow nor pain
but life everlasting.
Alleluia.
Amen.

God Our Father

God our Father,
we thank you that you have made each of us
in your own image,
and given us gifts and talents with which to serve you.
We thank you for – – – – – – ,
the years we shared with him/her,
the good we saw in him/her,
the love we received from him/her.
Now give us strength and courage
to leave him/her in your care,
confident in your promise of eternal life
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Prayers for Loss of Family Members and Friends

Many bereavement prayers are written specifically to a member of the family. The prayer may feature the mention of a parent, sibling, child, or a friend. Choosing a funeral prayer according to kinship can help personalize the funeral card and capture the life of the deceased in the form of a prayer.

Prayers for Loss of Father

Prayer for Father 1

May the light of Jesus and the Angels bring Peace and Salvation to my father. May he rest in peace knowing that his soul belongs to GOD and GOD only. No demon, no devil, no principality, no evil spirit has access to his light and salvation. All is well with us DAD go home and rest. We love you and one day soon we will see you in HEAVEN!

Prayer for Father 2

Dear Father, I thank You for taking care of my father during their life on Earth. I thank You for giving them the opportunity to bring me into this world and I likewise thank You for the opportunity to have this prayer. I rejoice over the life that he led while alive and for the good deeds he accomplished. Lord God, I thusly pray for the soul of my deceased father and that You take care of him on his way to Your holy Kingdom. I thank you for listening to my prayers oh Lord, Amen.

Prayers for Loss of Mother

Prayer for Mother 1

O God, Who has commanded us
to honor our father and mother,
have compassion in Thy mercy,
on the souls of my father and mother;
forgive them their sins,
and grant that I may see them
in the joy of eternal brightness.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Prayer for Mother 2

I commend you mother to Almighty God, and entrust you to your creator. May you rest in the arms of the Lord who formed you from the dust of the earth.

Please watch over our family in these difficult times.

May Holy Mary, the angels and all the saints welcome you now that you have gone forth from this life. May Christ who was crucified for you, bring you freedom and peace. May Christ who died for you, admit you into his garden of paradise. May Christ, the true Shepherd embrace you as one of his flock. May he forgive all your sins, and set you among those he has chosen.

Prayers for Loss of a Child

Prayer for a Child 1

God of all mystery, whose ways are beyond understanding,
lead us, who grieve at this untimely death,
to a new and deeper faith in your love,
which brought your only Son Jesus
through death into resurrection life.
We make our prayer in Jesus’ name.
Amen.

Prayer for a Child 2

Lord God,
ever caring and gentle
we commit to your love this little one,
quickened to life for so short a time.
Enfold him/her in eternal life.
We pray for his/her parents
who are saddened by the loss of their child.
Give them courage
and help them in their pain and grief.
May they all meet one day
in the joy and peace of your kingdom.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen

Prayer for Loss of Sister/Brother

Prayer for a Brother or Sister 1

As far as I remember, my brother/sister has been with me through all the ups and downs of life. We ate and played together, gave advice to each other and kept no secret from one another. Now, seeing as he/she is gone, I pray that he/she finds everlasting life and eternal happiness in Your powerful embrace. I pray You watch over his/her wife/husband/children/investments on Earth and let Your gaze shift not oh Lord. I thank You for this prayer session and in Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer for a Brother or Sister 2

Lord God above, we, Your humble children kneel before you today in reverence. We know You’re the greatest and You’re the king of all kings. So, we pray You uplift our heart and soul so that we may cast away our sorrows oh Lord. Give us the strength to surpass this situation. No one dies without Your say-so and thus, we rejoice over this triumph and we pray You be with our deceased brother/sister. We thank you for the answered prayer and in Jesus name, Amen.

Prayers for Loss of Friend

Prayer for a Friend 1

Dearest Jesus, who wept at the death of your friend
and taught that they who mourn shall be comforted,
grant us the comfort of your presence in our loss.
Send Your Holy Spirit to direct us
lest we make hasty or foolish decisions.
Send Your Spirit to give us courage
lest through fear we recoil from living.
Send Your Spirit to bring us your peace
lest bitterness, false guilt, or regret take root in our hearts.
The Lord has given.
The Lord has taken away.
Blessed be the name of the Lord.
Amen.

Prayer for a Friend 2

I commend you, my dear [name] to almighty God, and entrust you to your Creator. May you rest in the arms of the Lord who formed you from the dust of the earth. May holy Mary, the angels, and all the saints welcome you now that you have gone forth from this life. May Christ who was crucified for you, bring you freedom and peace. May Christ who died for you admit you into his garden of paradise. May Christ, the true Shepherd, embrace you as one of his flock. May he forgive all your sins and set you among those he has chosen. May you see your Redeemer face to face and enjoy the vision of God, forever. Amen.

Funeral Prayers of Emotion

Hands clasped in prayer

Many prayers vary according to theme, feelings, and emotions. Some prayers express sorrow and ask for peace for the soul of the deceased. Some prayers ask for the guidance of God in accepting the death of the person and hope for the grieving families to heal from the loss.

This list will help you if you want to express a particular theme in your funeral card.

Funeral Prayers for Acceptance

Prayer 1

God our Father,
Your power brings us to birth,
Your providence guides our lives,
and by Your command we return to dust.
Lord, those who die still live in Your presence,
their lives change but do not end.
I pray in hope for my family,
relatives and friends,
and for all the dead known to You alone.
In company with Christ,
Who died and now lives,
may they rejoice in Your kingdom,
where all our tears are wiped away.
Unite us together again in one family,
to sing Your praise forever and ever.
Amen.

Prayer 2

Lord God,
you are attentive to the voice
of our pleading.
Let us find in your Son
comfort in our sadness,
certainty in our doubt,
and courage to live through this hour.
Make our faith strong
through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Prayer 3

Lord God above, we, Your humble children kneel before you today in reverence. We know You’re the greatest and You’re the king of all kings. So, we pray You uplift our heart and soul so that we may cast away our sorrows oh Lord. Give us the strength to surpass this situation. No one dies without Your say-so and thus, we rejoice over this triumph and we pray You be with our deceased brother/sister. We thank you for the answered prayer and in Jesus name, Amen.

Prayers for Grieving

Prayer 1

Father,
you know our hearts and share our sorrows.
We are hurt by our parting from those whom we loved:
when we are angry at the loss we have sustained,
when we long for words of comfort,
yet find them hard to hear,
turn our grief to truer living,
our affliction to firmer hope
in Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Prayer 2

Our eyes, Lord, are wasted with grief;
you know we are weary with groaning.
As we remember our death
in the dark emptiness of the night,
have mercy on us and heal us;
forgive us and take away our fear
through the dying and rising of Jesus your Son.
Amen.

Prayer 3

Lord, have mercy
on those who mourn
who feel numb and crushed
and are filled with the pain of grief,
whose strength has given up
You know all our sighing and longings:
be near to us and teach us to fix our hope on you
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Funeral Prayers for Peace

Prayer 1

We thank You Lord for the passing of our brother/sister. We exalt Your name for the good life he/she lived. We pray oh Lord, that everlasting life be given unto him or her. And as he or she abides in Your garden, let Your angels touch what he/she cannot touch again. Father, be with his/her soul and may he/she rest in perfect eternal peace. Amen.

Prayer 2

Go forth, Christian soul, from this world
in the name of God the almighty Father,
who created you,
in the name of Jesus Christ, Son of the living God,
who suffered for you,
in the name of the Holy Spirit,
who was poured out upon you,
go forth, faithful Christian,
May you live in peace this day,
may your home be with God in Zion,
with Mary, the virgin Mother of God,
with Joseph, and all the angels and saints.

Prayer 3

All praise and glory are yours, Lord our God,
for you have called us to serve you in love.
Bless all who have grown old in your service
and give N. strength and courage
to continue to follow Jesus your Son.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayers from the Bible

Bible passages can serve as meaningful prayers for the soul of the deceased. Many Bible verses highlight death, resurrection, and God’s mercy for the departed. Scriptures help in bringing peace, comfort, and hope to families and friends as they mourn the death of a loved one.

Here are some common Bible passages that can be used as prayer and included in your funeral card.

John 14:27

Holy God, Your Word says peace You leave with me and Your peace You give to me. You do not give to me as the world gives, but what You give us is eternal and never fades. So during this funeral, I pray that I do not become troubled and I pray that I do not become afraid. I ask You to surround me with an overwhelming peace as I mourn my loss. I pray that I do not become crippled by the pain, but let my heart not be troubled, Amen.

Isaiah 41:10

Awesome God, I will not fear for You are with me! I will not be dismayed because You are my God! I know that You will strengthen me, because Your word tells me that in my weakness I am made strong. I know that my help comes from You. Lord, uphold me with Your righteous hand, I thank You for never letting me go. During this funeral, I thank You that I am not alone in my pain and sadness. I have You by my side, Amen.

Psalm 46:1-10

God of heaven, You are my refuge and my strength; You are my ever-present help in this difficult time. During this funeral, I will not be afraid even though it feels like my world is falling apart. Despite the way I am feeling, I must be still and know that You are my God. You are with me Father, and I know that You are my fortress. I will not be shaken by what I experience. You will be exalted among the nations and You will be exalted in the earth, Amen.

1 Corinthians 15:50-52

Oh Lord, I thank You because I can place my hope in You. Flesh and blood cannot inherit Your kingdom, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Father, we will not all sleep but we will be changed – in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. The trumpet will sound and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed! Lord, during this funeral, I thank You because I know that at the sounding of the trumpet, I will see my loved one again in Your glory, Amen.

Philippians 4:7

King of Glory, I declare that the peace that comes from You transcends all understanding and will guard my heart and my mind in Christ Jesus! Lord, during this funeral, I need You in this difficult time Lord and I need You for divine strength and comfort. It is only by Your grace and mercy that I will find peace in my pain, so help me Father. Help me to feel Your presence even as I grieve. King of healing, fill my heart Amen.

Short Bible Verses

Adding short Bible verses can help inspire faith and hope in eternal life. Short Biblical passages can encourage mourners in accepting the death of their loved one and remind them that they are now united with God.

You can add these short Bible verses to your selected prayers, or use them by themselves.

Matthew 5:4

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Proverbs 12:28

In the path of righteousness is life, and in its pathway there is no death.

Psalm 46:1-2

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14

But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.

For further selections from the Bible, continue reading here.

Other Types of Prayers

Prayers can also vary depending on use (such as obituaries and eulogies), as well as the final disposition of the person who died.

Obituary Prayers

When you prepare an obituary for your loved one, it can be fitting to include a prayer. The length of the prayer will depend on where you publish the obituary.

For instance, for a local paper, you may want to include a short prayer as the price will vary according to length. A longer prayer can be used if the obituary will be posted on a website or sent out as emails.

Prayer 1

Oh Father of mercies, and God of all comfort,
Thou hast often invited us to thyself in kindness.
It manifests our depravity that we think of Thee so little
In our hour of ease and prosperity!
But we are now before Thee in affliction and distress.
Yet we rejoice to know that
Thou art a very present and an
All-sufficient help in trouble.

Prayer 2

Our heavenly father, our family prays that You will find mercy on the soul of our brother and friend. We pray that with his unexpected death, his soul may find peace that he has lived a good life and did his best serving his family, workplace and loved ones while he was on earth. We also earnestly seek for the forgiveness of all his sins and all of his shortcomings. May he find assurance that his family will remain strong and steadfast in serving the Lord as he moves forward in his journey to eternal life with Christ, his Lord and Savior. Dear Father, take His soul into Your kingdom and let perpetual light shine upon him, may he rest in peace. Amen.

Cremation Prayers

Some prayers are appropriate for cremation ceremonies. If there is a committal service where you bury the ashes of the person who died, you can include a cremation prayer in your funeral card. This will allow other mourners to join you in praying upon the interring of the ashes.

Listed below are some of the prayers appropriate for cremation.

Prayer 1

Eternal God, you have shared with us the life of ______________ Before she was ours, she was yours. For all that ________________ has given us to make us what we are, for that of her which lives and grows in each of us, and for her life that in your love will never end, we give you thanks.

As now we offer _________________ back into your arms, comfort us in our loneliness, strengthen us in our weakness, and give us courage to face the future unafraid. Draw those of us who remain in this life closer to one another, make us faithful to serve one another, and give us to know that peace and joy which is eternal life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer 2

O God, in whom we live and move and have our being, we thank you for the life of ________________. We are grateful for all the ways (s)he has touched the lives of those around /herhim. Her/His death brings sorrow and grief to us who love her/him. Grant us your blessing in this hour, and enable us so to put our trust in you that our spirits may grow calm and our hearts be comforted. Lift our eyes beyond the shadows of earth, and help us to see the light of eternity. So may we find grace and strength for this and every time of need; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer 3

God, we commend to You the spirit of _______ and commit his/her earthly remains to their final resting place – earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust. May You bless him/her. May You keep him/her. And may Your countenance shine upon him/her and bring him/her everlasting peace. Amen.

FAQ

What do you write on a funeral card?

A funeral card usually includes a photo of the deceased, name, birthdate date of death, and the funeral program title. It may also include poems, quotes, and other readings that are often religious in nature. Other common details are the date and location of the service, the order of the service, names of those who will participate in the service, selections of music, obituary or biography, interment details, and information about the funeral reception.

Where can I make funeral cards?

You can make your own funeral card or have it done by a professional or a printing service company.

What is the difference between a funeral card and a memorial card?

Funeral cards are often religious in nature with poems and prayers that are God-centered and derived from the scripture. Funeral cards are also lengthier and may provide the order of service for the funeral.
Memorial cards can be personalized more and include secular poems and prayers that are not directly from the Bible. Memorial cards are generally smaller and contain fewer details about the deceased and the service.

What is the difference between a funeral card and a prayer card?

Prayer cards came from an old Catholic tradition of giving small cards that feature images of saints or religious scenes and prayers to celebrate special moments. They do not always feature information about the deceased (or it may be limited to name and dates.)
Funeral cards are also religious, but they focus more on the person who died. Aside from prayers and verses, funeral cards also contain poems and other personal details about the deceased.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading! We hope you find this helpful. If you have suggestions or feedback, send us an email at info@in-valhalla.com.

Casket Sizes – Complete Guide to Interior and Exterior Dimensions

Introduction

Before the mass production of caskets, caskets were usually custom-built to the dimensions of the deceased. Now, almost all traditional caskets come in three main sizes: standard, oversized, and child casket.

Note: Though the words “casket” and “coffin” are often used interchangeably, they actually mean two different things. We will will not use the word coffin in this article.

Table: Average Interior Dimensions for All Caskets

Type of CasketAverage Interior Dimensions
Standard Metal CasketLength: 78 inches
Width: 23 inches
Standard Wood CasketLength: 75 inches
Width: 22 inches
Oversized CasketLength: 83 inches
Width: 28 inches
Double Oversized CasketLength: 85 inches
Width: 38 inches
Children’s CasketLength: 60 inches
Width: 11 inches
Disclaimer: Different manufactures use slightly different dimensions and construction processes. in Valhalla does not guarantee these dimensions are accurate. This just means we should not be held responsible if, for example, a metal casket that’s labeled standard is not 78 by 23 inches.

Standard Casket Dimensions

Adult-size caskets use the same standard exterior measurements for both metal and wood caskets. 

As the “standard”, these dimensions will fit most adult bodies. (However, there will be minor variations depending on the casket manufacturer.)

The dimensions provided are averaged according to the sizes of metal and wood caskets because they are most common. These average measurements usually hold true to other alternative materials such as wicker caskets. 

Exterior Dimensions

coffin being carried by people

All adult caskets in the standard category must be able to fit in a burial vault. The average size burial vault is 86 by 30 inches.

Therefore both standard metal and wood caskets adhere to the same outside dimensions. The standard exterior measurements for both is 84 by 29 inches.

A burial vault is also known as an outside burial container. It encloses a caskets to prevent a grave from sinking⁠. You can think of a burial vault as a casket for your casket.

TypeAverage Exterior Dimensions
Standard Adult Caskets
(Metal and Wood)		Length: 84 inches
Width: 29 inches
Standard Burial VaultsLength: 86 inches
Width: 30 inches
Average Exterior Dimensions of Standard Caskets and Burial Vaults

Interior Dimensions

Although wood and metal caskets measure the same on the outside, they vary in interior dimensions. (see why below)

The average interior size for a standard metal caskets is 78 inches long, 23 inches wide, and 16 to 24 inches tall.

On the other hand, a standard wood casket averages an interior size of 75 inches long, 22 inches wide, and 16 to 22 inches tall.

TypeAverage Interior Dimensions
Standard Metal CasketsLength: 78 inches
Width: 23 inches
Height: 16 to 24 inches
Standard Wood Caskets
(smaller)		Length: 75 inches
Width: 22 inches
Height: 16 to 22 inches
Average Interior Dimensions of Metal and Wood Caskets

As you can see, the interior space of a wood casket is slightly smaller than a metal casket. Why?

In building caskets, wood panels are typically thicker than metal. So even though wood and metal caskets have the same exterior dimensions, you can expect that metal caskets will have more room inside.

Most adults with a height of up to 6’3″ can fit comfortably in any standard casket. If the deceased is taller, the adjustable interior bedding can fix this.

You can simply slant the bed or pose the body in a slight spread-eagle to make the deceased look comfortable in an open casket. A blanket or a lid will likely cover the bottom half of the caskets anyway.

Oversized Caskets Dimensions

wooden casket

Oversized caskets are designed, logically, for larger bodies that can’t fit in standard size caskets. The average interior dimensions of oversized caskets are 83 inches long and 28 inches wide. An oversized casket with this size will still fit in a standard-sized burial vault.

In constructing and discussing oversized caskets, the standard casket dimensions will increase by 2-inch increments in width and 3-inch increments in length. 

Each step up in size increment will be in terms of X.

For example, a casket that is 3X in length is 9 inches longer than a normal casket. Meanwhile, a casket that is 3X in width is 6 inches wider than a normal casket.

Disclaimer: some manufacturers do not follow this formula. Instead, they build a wide range of oversized caskets of sizes that will be ready-made for customers.

For example, this oversized casket Titan Atlas XL is available in 28″, 29″, 33″, 36″, 40″, 44″ and larger sizes. Similar manufacturers will likely have oversized caskets on-hand. 

oversized casket
Source: Titan Casket

Reminder: The funeral director must view the deceased first before you select a casket (if buying from the funeral home). This is necessary so they can assess the approximate size needed for your loved one’s casket. For cost savings, we recommend buying caskets online; you can still ask the funeral home team to help determine what size you’ll need.

Double Oversized Casket

If the deceased needs an even larger casket than an oversized casket, there is an option for a double oversized casket.

Its interior measures 85 inches long and 38 inches wide. To give you an idea of how big a double oversized casket is, a twin bed mattress measures 75 inches long and 39 inches wide.

Reminder: A double oversized casket will need a larger burial vault and will likely require an additional grave space.

Overall, you can expect that oversized caskets will be more expensive than a standard casket. Although all caskets are made of the same materials and designs, you have to consider that oversized caskets need additional materials, labor, and even custom work to build them.

Children’s Casket Dimensions

infant coffin

Smaller casket sizes are made for infants and children. The average interior dimensions for children’s caskets are 60 inches long and 11 inches wide. 

This image is a coffin, not a casket, because of the hexagonal shape.

For shorter or taller bodies, the range of length for children’s caskets starts at 12 inches and goes up to 5 feet 6 inches. Typically it will just increase lengthwise by 6-inch increments. The width, on the other hand, will just vary in proportion to the casket’s length.

As with oversized caskets, the materials, styles, and other hardware used for children’s caskets are similar to the ones used for standard sizes. The only difference is the dimensions.  

Standard Cremation Box Size

The maximum dimensions for a cremation casket or container will depend upon the crematorium. Make sure to check with them first, especially if your cremation container is larger than the standard size. Some crematoriums require a maximum external coffin size of 82 inches long, 33 inches wide, and 25 inches tall.

If your local crematorium’s restrictions conflicts with the casket you intend to use, consider looking into renting a casket.

FAQ

What is the size of a casket in feet?

The average dimensions of a standard adult-size coffin are 7.17 ft by 2.5 ft.

Do coffins come in different sizes?

Yes. Usually, a casket comes in standard, oversized, or children sizes. Most adults can fit in a standard coffin.

What are the exterior dimensions of a coffin?

The average exterior dimensions of an adult-sized coffin is 84 by 29 inches.

What are the interior dimensions of a coffin?

Wood and metal caskets typically have different interior dimensions since metal is thinner. The average interior size for a standard metal coffin is 78 inches long, 23 inches wide, and 16-24 inches tall. Meanwhile, a standard wood coffin has an average interior size of 75 inches long, 22 inches wide, and 16-22 inches tall.

How is the body of the deceased person measured?

Aside from considering the height, the body must be measured in width from elbow to elbow to determine the appropriate coffin size.

Do metal and wood caskets measure the same?

The exterior dimensions of standard metal and wood coffins measure the same. However, the interior dimensions of wood coffins are slightly smaller.

Why do metal and wood caskets have different interior measurements?

This is because wood panels are thicker than metal in constructing coffins.

What if I can’t fit in a standard coffin?

Some coffin suppliers can have your casket custom-built in case you need a different size. Simply check with a casket manufacturer to see if they can customize one for you.

Can a tall person fit in a standard coffin?

If the body is taller than a standard coffin, you can slightly adjust the interior bedding or pose the body in a slight spread-eagle position to make them look comfortable in an open casket.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading! We hope you find this helpful. If you have suggestions or feedback, send us an email at info@in-valhalla.com.