In the United States, traditions surrounding death and mourning are as diverse as the cultural backgrounds and religious beliefs of the people who observe them. These practices offer families ways to honor their loved ones, find closure, and support each other during a time of loss. While customs can differ widely from family to family, here are some of the most common ways people in the U.S. honor their loved ones after they pass away.

In Texas, a state with rich cultural diversity, funeral rituals reflect various religious, cultural, and traditional practices. However, several funeral customs are particularly common across the state. There has been a lot of press regarding the increase in the non-affiliated but there will always be those who follow deeply held religious beliefs, especially regarding death and the afterlife. We honor them all at Martin Oaks Cemetery & Crematory.

We may think our loved ones will have it all figured out when we pass, but do they really? What about the ashes of your grandparents sitting in eternal peace in the closet? Do your grandchildren really want them in their closet when it’s time to sort through your belongings? It may or may not surprise you that, in most cemeteries, ashes can be buried along other ashes or a full casket all in one grave.

The treatment of the deceased is a reflection of deeply held beliefs and traditions. Religion, in particular, plays a pivotal role in shaping these attitudes, guiding rituals, and influencing the way societies honor and remember their departed loved ones. Although there isn't a single global religious group (with one exception) that strictly forbids cremation, there are some religions that traditionally discourage or prohibit it.

From the solemnity of post-mortem portraits to the sartorial elegance of Victorian mourning attire, our exploration unveils the unique practices that once defined the farewell rituals of yesteryear. Could history be repeating itself?

People choose cremation over burial for a variety of personal, cultural, and practical reasons but it isn’t surprising that many people choose both. Yes, you can bury cremated remains in a cemetery plot with a headstone and graveside ceremony if desired. Here are the top five reasons why people opt for cremation.

Whether one chooses cremation or another form of disposition, the essence is the same - the profound human connection to the cycle of life and the celebration of a unique individual's existence. Cremation, with its rich history and symbolic depth, continues to be a choice that resonates with many, offering solace, sustainability, and a timeless connection to our shared humanity.

Celebrating the Joy of Existence—Elaborate bamboo structures called "bade" are crafted and embellished with flowers, sacred symbols, and intricate designs. These bade, resembling mythical creatures or traditional architecture, are used as elaborate sarcophagi to transport the deceased.

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For those choosing cremation, ashes can be honored in many creative and meaningful ways. While some options are unconventional, there are many more traditional things you can do with cremated remains to memorialize someone who has died. All of these options allow you to keep their memory alive in a way that feels personal and special to you.

At Martin Oaks, we have developed and implemented Identification and Chain of Custody processes and procedures to make sure that it is your loved one who is returned to you or is placed in their final resting place as expected.