Ash Spreading Law

on June 2, 2015

Cremation is an increasingly popular way for dealing with earthly remains. It’s considered environmentally responsible, and the “cremains” are harmless. However, loved ones are sometimes troubled by what to do with the ashes after cremation.

Various Options for Cremation Remains

Statistics suggest that people are divided about what to do with the remains after cremation. Some bury them, others keep them. The remainder participate in an ash spreading ceremony. The first two options don’t present a difficulty as long as laws are observed. Ash spreading may be different. States and local governments create their own laws about where an ash spreading ceremony can take place.

Popular Locations for Ash Spreading

Many people request that their remains be spread in their yard or on other personal property after cremation. Other people prefer a more public spot such as a golf course, favorite fishing hole or community park. Some people felt a spiritual connection to the beach, a national park or a hiking trail during life and would like to have an ash spreading ceremony carried out in that location after their death. These and a great many other locations are all possibilities for ash spreading.

Ash Spreading Laws

The laws that govern ash spreading vary a great deal between states and even individual municipalities. If the ash spreading will occur on privately held land, then it is essential to obtain the owner’s permission. It’s possible to have ash spreading ceremonies in national parks, but only with a permit and within certain stringent guidelines. Because laws vary widely, it’s helpful for the person considering cremation to do some homework before passing away. This takes pressure off of loved ones, who must nonetheless double check the law before scattering ashes. Also, the funeral home that performs the cremation will probably have helpful advice.

Proudly Serving Central Florida

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake – (352) 639-2563

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How Having a Bucket List Can Change the Way You Live

on August 14, 2014

Most people think of a bucket list as a list of activities to make their lives better in the proverbial “someday,” but did you know that having a bucket list can actually improve your quality of life today? It’s true. Don’t wait until it’s time to start your funeral planning to start your bucket list. Here are four ways that having a bucket list can change the way you live today.

Four Ways a Bucket List Can Make Every Day Better

1. It Will Help You Focus on Your Priorities

Without clear priorities, it is too easy to just spend your money and time frivolously until it’s time to begin your funeral planning. With a bucket list, however, you can start putting your time and your money towards those activities you can’t wait to accomplish before it’s time to start funeral planning.

2. It Will Give You Something to Look Forward To

With work, bills and family responsibilities, it can be easy to fall into a boring routine of doing the same old thing every day until it’s time for funeral planning. This kind of life can seem hopeless. With a bucket list, however, you have goals to look forward to and to strive for.

3. It Will Help You Expand Your Horizons

While making your bucket list, the world is your oyster. You can put absolutely anything on your list that you want. After you fill it in with all the usual things, you may start thinking of new things you would like to try before it’s time to start funeral planning.

4. It Will Help You to Start Taking Steps in a Positive Direction

Without a bucket list, you are stuck with the feeling that things will get better “someday,” but someday never seems to come. Instead, it’s time to start funeral planning before you know it. With a bucket list, however, you have a clear plan of what you want to do, which is the first step in actually making it happen.

Partner With Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida

Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida wants to help you remember your loved one the way they would want to be remembered. With everything from flower arrangements to memorabilia and urns & caskets, we have your needs covered.

Proudly Serving Central Florida

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake – (352) 639-2563

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Is Cremation Right for You?

on December 27, 2013

When a loved one dies, we go through a difficult mourning process. Unfortunately, though most people only want to be with their family and begin the grieving process, there are important decisions to make about your loved one’s final resting place. This is why it’s important to think about whether cremation is right for you and your loved ones now, so that making these decisions during mourning will be a bit easier. If you decide that you prefer cremation to traditional burial, you can tell your loved ones now so that they can honor your wishes in death.

Though it has been around as long as traditional burial, cremation is now emerging as a more common burial option. Considering whether cremation is right for you or a loved one is a deeply personal decision: here are some questions to help you make the best choice.

Is Cremation Right for You or Your Loved Ones?

Did your loved one share their views on burial?

If you are considering cremation for yourself, you can weigh your views on burial, including your religious beliefs. If you are considering cremation for a loved one, it is vital that you take their wishes into consideration. If they specifically asked for a traditional burial, then cremation would not be appropriate. However, if they did not specify their wishes, consider their religious beliefs. Most religions accept cremation, except Orthodox Judaism, Eastern Orthodox Church, and Islam.

Do you want to hold funeral services?

You might worry that cremation would prevent you from having a traditional visitation and funeral service. This is not true, however. Cremation can be accompanied by services that resemble those of a traditional burial, so that friends and family can come and pay their respects. You can even choose to bury the cremation urn in a cemetery so that people can visit your loved one’s grave as with traditional burial.

Are your loved ones concentrated in one region or spread out?

Cremation allows family members who are geographically spread out to take part in the mourning process. Your loved one’s ashes can be shared with various members of the family, whether stored in individual urns or in cremation jewelry. A traditional funeral and burial leaves your loved one tied to one area so that those who live far away may feel disconnected from them. If a loved one’s ashes are shared after cremation, even family members halfway around the world can feel closer to your departed loved one.

More help with considering cremation.

At Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida, we know these times can be difficult. We can help, though. We will meet with you to discuss cremation and whether it is right for you or your loved one.

Have you lost a loved one? For information about our cremation services, contact Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida.

Proudly Serving All of Central Florida.

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake - (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: Cremation, End-of-Life Preperations, Funeral Services Tagged With: , ,

Tips for Choosing Cremation Jewelry

on December 17, 2013

Cremation jewelry serves as a way to honor the life of a deceased loved one. With so many styles available, we know it can be difficult to choose the cremation jewelry that is right for your needs. Although we cannot make this decision for you, we are here to provide you with considerations that should make the cremation jewelry selection process easier.

What to Consider When Selecting Cremation Jewelry:

The cost of cremation jewelry

The cost of jewelry should be the first outstanding factor that you consider when planning to buy cremation jewelry. Because there are so many jewelers, you have a number of options to choose from when it comes time to select something. This makes it important to have patience and shop around for cost-effective jewelers.

The kind of cremation jewelry

This is another very significant factor to keep in mind before choosing cremation jewelry. Cremation jewelry can be comprised of a number of things; it does not just need to hold the deceased’s ashes. Locks of hair or funeral flower remnants can both be used as alternatives or additions to cremation jewelry.

At Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida, we know how hard it is to lose a loved one. And while cremation jewelry will not make your loss any less painful, it acts as an excellent coping mechanism. If you choose to purchase cremation jewelry, the above guidelines can help.

For details about cremation jewelry, contact Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida at (407) 569-0992.

Proudly Serving All of Central Florida.

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake - (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: Cremation, End-of-Life Preperations, Funeral Services Tagged With: , ,

What Is Cremation Jewelry?

on December 9, 2013

Upon the passing of a loved one, surviving family members and loved ones all cope differently. For some, adorning him or herself or a mantle in cremation jewelry is a way to grieve over the loss of a deceased family member or friend. If you have recently lost a loved one or you are preparing for their passing, exploring the concept of cremation jewelry is a good idea. Why? Cremation jewelry is an excellent way to pay tribute to the life of the deceased.

What Is It?

Just as the name suggests, cremation jewelry is jewelry that serves to pay remembrance to a deceased loved one. The wonderful thing about cremation jewelry is the fact that it is available in a number of forms and materials. For example, cremation jewelry can take shape as a necklace, locket, bracelet, ring, or even a keychain. For an even more personal experience, consider customized jewelry.

Additionally, cremation jewelry can be made in a number of materials, such as glass, wood, gemstones, and other precious metals. The versatility of cremation jewelry enables it to match the specific needs of your deceased loved one. Something as simple as the inclusion of the decedent’s birthstone or an inscription with their favorite words to live by can be great ways to pay tribute.

What Makes Cremation Jewelry Special?

One of the things that makes cremation jewelry special is the fact that in addition to including special sayings or gemstones, they often include the ashes of your loved one. Typically, the jewelry is filled or infused with ashes. Alternatively, a lock of hair or memorial service items, such as flowers, are also included. What makes cremation jewelry special is your ability to design jewelry that honors your loved one how you see fit. Whether you choose to wear or display your cremation jewelry is something that remains your decision.

If you would like to honor a loved one with cremation jewelry, Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida can help. For details about our services, contact Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida.

Proudly Serving All of Central Florida.

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake - (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: Cremation, End-of-Life Preperations Tagged With: , , ,

How to Write an Obituary for a Loved One

on November 26, 2013

If you have lost a loved one, you may be wondering how to write an obituary. An obituary encompasses many things, such as the notice of one’s death, their life story, a record of the family, information about the funeral service, or a thank you to those who helped the life of the departed. Although obituaries are written every day, they can sometimes be difficult for survivors to write upon the passing of a loved one. Unsure about how to write an obituary? Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society has details about how to write an obituary.

Tips About How to Write an Obituary:

If you are wondering how to write an obituary, basic information should be covered accurately and completely. If you are wanting other ideas about how to write an obituary, try including a compelling story about the deceased’s life that inspires other people to live their lives with more purpose and hope.

How to Write an Obituary Tip #1 - Accuracy & Completeness

The most important things in an obituary are accuracy and completeness. Although this may seem obvious, things become difficult when you aren’t certain about how to write an obituary. Despite this, it is important to preserve the memory of your loved one by way of the inclusion of accurate information. Fortunately, proofreading can help with this. As a rule of thumb, set aside the document, and look at it another day.

How to Write an Obituary Tip #2 - Recreate The Deceased’s Character

Knowing how to write an obituary is not second nature for most people, but it can be learned. In addition to being accurate and thorough, make an obituary interesting and compelling, focusing more on the life that was lived than the death that occurred. As a rule of thumb, think of writing an obituary as storytelling. This is your opportunity to let others learn about the life your loved one lived. Simply put: If you’re wondering how to write an obituary, think of it as a celebration of life.

Learning How to Write an Obituary Can Become Easy

By including accurate biographical and funeral-related information, as well as an all-encompassing summary of the individual’s life, obituary writing will be easier. During these difficult times, we understand that the last thing a deceased’s surviving family members or friends will want to do is learn how to write an obituary. By following these guidelines, you won’t have to stress.

For information about other end-of-life preparations, contact one of Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society’s locations.

Serving Central Florida

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake – (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: End-of-Life Preperations, Funeral Services Tagged With: , , ,

Funeral Etiquette | How to Ask for Donations

on November 21, 2013

The passing of loved ones is always a difficult time, but when you add asking for donations to the mix, it can seem like an impossible task. However, with proper funeral etiquette, you can ask for donations and receive them in a painless manner. Believe it or not, asking for funeral donations instead of flowers is not an uncommon request. For many, the cost of a funeral can be debilitating. Because of this, any financial reprieve can help. Unsure how to ask for donations? We have some funeral etiquette tips that can make this sometimes uncomfortable process easier.

Funeral Etiquette Tips: Collecting Donations

Flowers are beautiful, but when funeral costs become too expensive for a family to finance, donations are more helpful to the deceased’s surviving loved ones. If you are hesitant to ask for funeral donations, don’t be. With the right funeral etiquette, family and friends will welcome the opportunity to help you. So, what funeral etiquette do you use when asking for funeral donations?

Funeral Etiquette Pointer #1 - Include your request in the funeral announcement.

Your first step of funeral etiquette should be making a funeral announcement with a brief but to-the-point message about funeral donations. A simple note, such as “The family is accepting funeral donations in place of flowers,” is a polite and acceptable addition to an obituary. Furthermore, this same message can be communicated by email, phone, or in person to close family and friends.

Funeral Etiquette Pointer #2 - Choose somewhere for the funeral donations to be sent.

Although choosing a location for the money to be sent may be the last thing on your radar, it is crucial that you make this consideration prior to sending a funeral announcement. Chances are your loved ones want to help; however, they will need a firm idea of where to send any donations before they can assist your family.

Funeral Etiquette Pointer #3 - Send a Thank You Note.

Although it can be difficult, sending a thank you note is proper funeral etiquette. These notes do not need to be rushed. Sometime after the funeral, send a simple note of thanks with a message as brief as “Our family thanks you for your donation during this difficult time.” In addition, making an announcement of thanks at the visitation or funeral is also polite.

When it comes to the acquisition of funeral donations, funeral etiquette is essential. Though these times can be trying, funeral etiquette is still important. Your grace will encourage family and friends to unite, helping you through this difficult time.

Have you lost a loved one? For information about our end-of-life services, contact Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Winter Park, Florida.

Proudly Serving All of Central Florida.

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake – (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: End-of-Life Preperations, Funeral Services Tagged With: , , ,

Grief Management: How to Cope With the Loss of a Loved One

on November 6, 2013

Upon the death of a loved one, grief management becomes very important. Losing a loved one is difficult. This is because it is hard to believe either you’re having trouble dealing with the reality of their passing or you miss them dearly. The result? People usually undergo severe emotional distress as they attempt to manage their grief. Grief is something most everyone who has ever experienced this type of loss share. Thankfully, a number of strategies have been developed to help people cope with their grief.

Grief Management Strategies:

Grief Management Tactic #1 - Seek Support.

During tough times, it is best to seek support of those around you — times of grief are no different. The love of those closest to you can have a powerful, unparalleled healing effect. The important thing to do is reach out to others, because sometimes people don’t know you need help unless you ask. In addition to seeking support from loved ones, consider connecting with any spiritual groups or social organizations that may console you.

Grief Management Tactic #2 - Give Yourself Some TLC.

It is vital to understand that the death of someone you treasure can adversely affect both your emotional and physical condition. Therefore, it is essential that you take good care of your bodily and emotional needs during periods of death-related grief. Showing yourself some TLC is a way to be certain that both your physical and emotional needs do not go neglected. Maybe you need some extra pampering, or perhaps you need an emotional outlet like a private journal that enables you to reflect on the life of the deceased? Finding ways to care for both your emotional and physical needs is crucial, so do whatever it takes to find a healthy outlet.

Grief Management Tactic #3 - Don’t Let Grief Dictate Your Daily Activities.

When you lose someone significant in your life, even the smallest nuances can trigger feelings of grief. Because of this, some people try to avoid engaging in activities that prompt grief altogether. However, avoiding certain activities is not only unhealthy to your mental health, it is ineffective, too. You are bound to feel grief, so it is best to address it sooner than later. If doing an activity that arouses memories of your loved one seems too difficult to handle alone, take things slow or invite a close confidant to join you until you feel comfortable. Confronting your emotions is an important step on the road to recover from grief.

Grief Management Tactic #4 - Seek Help From a Professional.

Everyone handles grief differently, and for some, seeking the help of a professional is very helpful in mending feelings of grief. In such instances, speaking with a counselor or psychologist can be beneficial to the grief recovery process. So, if you find yourself struggling to overcome intense feelings of grief, don’t ignore your emotions — embrace them. This is important, because intense symptoms of grief could lead to detrimental health problems, severe emotional damage, and, in some cases, suicide. For additional support, ask your specialist about outside support groups.

Seek Assistance Now.

Everyone is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution for handling grief. Experimenting with these ideas and finding what works best for you is paramount to your ability to recover from grief. At Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Winter Park, Florida, we know how difficult these times can be, but it’s important that you remember there is help available.

For information about our end-of-life services, contact Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Winter Park, Florida.

Proudly Serving All of Central Florida.

Winter Park - (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach - (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake - (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: End-of-Life Preperations Tagged With: , , ,

How To Select a Hospice Care Provider

on October 30, 2013

Choosing hospice care for a loved one in their final days can be a daunting task, as one gets overly concerned about whether the hospice care plan will be designed to meet the needs and wishes of the family member in need. At Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society, we understand how important it is to make these final stages of life comfortable and enjoyable. Because of this understanding, we have created some guidelines for selecting a hospice care provider that satisfies your loved one’s needs.

What You Need to Know

Hospice care services are for people who are terminally ill and nearing the end of life. Oftentimes, hospice care providers are hired to help care for a loved one in need. The goal of hospice care is to minimize pain, and, in the process, ensure comfort. These needs are not only physical, they could be psychological and spiritual, too. When it comes to choosing the perfect hospice care provider, it is important to pay attention to these factors, as well as a few other important guidelines.

Additional Factors to Consider When Hiring a Hospice Care Provider:

Accreditation and Certification

The hospice care provider in consideration needs to be certified and licensed for operation by the Joint Commission, formerly the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. This is a non-profit organization that accredits healthcare organizations in the US after careful scrutiny. The caretaker needs to be certified by Medicare and licensed by the state health department, too, to ensure that your loved one will receive the proper care they need during this sometimes difficult transition.

Provision of Information

A good hospice care facility should have brochures and other relevant material available, detailing the services they offer. Costs of services offered by the hospice care provider, payment options, rules for eligibility, and information such as liability insurance should also be clearly outlined. Furthermore, the hospice care organization should have someone readily available for consultation and who’s equipped to address queries and concerns by potential clients. Alternatively, the hospice care agency should have a telephone number you can call in case of any follow-up questions.

Personalized Care Plans

It is important that your loved one receive the basic care they need. However, no one patient is the same. Because of this, you should find out if the hospice care supplier has health care plans that can be tailor-made, according to the physical and mental needs of each patient. Additionally, ask to see a sample care plan.

Costs

Cost is another major factor to consider when you are selecting a hospice care provider for your loved one. How much does the hospice care facility charge for its services? What are their billing and payment plan options? If you find their services overly expensive, you should find out if the provider offers any payment plans. Many do, so be sure to ask before you rule something out based on sheer cost.

Although nobody wants to think about putting their loved one in hospice care, it is important that you consider these factors beforehand. Doing so will enable you to keep calm during this sometimes stressful transition.

For information about our end-of-life services, contact Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society.

Proudly Serving All of Central Florida.

Winter Park - (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach - (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake - (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: End-of-Life Preperations Tagged With: , ,

Estate Tax’s Affect on Descendants

on October 7, 2013

As a parent, helping your children out financially and leaving them secure after your demise is a universal wish. However, you should be careful if you do not want them to be faced with a hefty bill from tax collectors. To avoid this, you need to understand what estate tax is and its implication on your descendants. Doing so will enable you to make wise estate tax plans.

What is estate tax?

Estate tax is the levy by the state on the taxable estate of a deceased individual. The term “taxable estate” means gross estate reduced by allowance deductions. Furthermore, “Gross estate” refers to the total value of an estate, plus all the assets owned by the deceased. Once this value is figured, the government determines taxable estate by subtracting allowances, such as funeral expenses, estate administration expenses, outstanding debts and marital expenses from the total gross estate value.

Changes in the Estate Tax Law

In 2013, the United States experienced some changes in the existing estate tax laws whereby tax rates increased by 30 percent and the inclusion amount decreased by $4.1 million. Therefore, it is very important for you to make good use of estate planning to minimize tax liabilities that might be too heavy on your descendants.

Along with an increase in the taxation rate, these estate tax modifications eliminated the option for spouses to transfer exceptions between each other. You should see an attorney to know more about this and decide on the strategies to overcome the loss of portability provision. In most cases, married couples need to modify their estate plans. Whenever there are major changes, such as an addition of a new baby, divorcing, or getting married, you should always update your estate plans.

Estate Tax Implications on your Descendants

Since the tax is imposed on gross value of the estate, your heirs may be faced with difficulties covering all the expenses. Some states allow beneficiaries to take some of the estate value, while others don’t offer such an exemption. There are some states that do not assess these taxes if the estate is bequeathed to minors, but there are also those who impose taxes based on the total value of the property. Every state is different, so it’s best to discuss estate tax details with a professional.

Estate tax has a number of other implications on descendants. For example, as long as current estate tax laws are in effect, a beneficiary only receives a share of the inherited estate, which is dependent on the market value on the date of the death. This is an unfair policy, since with time, stocks generally appreciate in value.

As you make estate tax plans, it’s important that you consider the future of your beneficiaries. Assessing how estate tax will affect them if they cash the account out is of paramount importance. In some instances, it is more realistic for descendants to transfer the estate funds into a new account to avoid excessive taxation.

Make Estate Tax and Other End-of-Life Preparations Today

Due to the fact that estate tax can create an enormous tax liability on your descendants, you should seek legal help from an experienced attorney. This will ensure that your estates are fully secure, lessening tax liabilities on your heirs and descendants.

In addition to getting a firm hold on your estate tax situation before you pass away, you will also want to get other end-of-life preparations in order.

For more helpful information about how you can arrange important end-of-life preparations like your estate tax, contact Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society today.

Proudly Serving All of Central Florida.

Winter Park - (407) 569-0992
New Smyrna Beach - (386) 957-1693
Lady Lake - (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: End-of-Life Preperations Tagged With: , ,
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