Urns, Niches and Other Ways to Memorialize Cremated Remains

Cremation gives families more time and more choices about a final resting place. There is no deadline to decide, as long as the remains are collected from the funeral home. These are the options families in Brevard County choose most often.

Keeping an urn at home

Many families keep an urn at home, at least for a while. Choose an urn with enough capacity (urn size calculator) and a secure lid. Consider writing down what you would like to happen to the urn in the future, so it does not become a difficult question for the next generation.

Columbarium niche

A columbarium is a wall or structure with small compartments (niches) for urns, found at many cemeteries and some churches. It gives family a place to visit with a nameplate or inscription. Before buying an urn, check the niche’s interior dimensions and any rules about urn materials.

Burial of the urn

Urns can be buried in a cemetery plot, including in an existing family grave in many cemeteries. Some cemeteries require an urn vault. An urn burial usually costs less than a casket burial because the plot and opening fees are smaller; ask the cemetery.

National cemetery for veterans

Eligible veterans and family members can have cremated remains interred or placed in a columbarium at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Mims, with a government headstone or niche cover at no cost. Veterans benefits.

Scattering

Scattering on land, at sea, or in a cemetery scattering garden is common in Florida. Scattering rules and ideas.

Keepsakes and sharing

Keepsake urns and cremation jewelry hold a small portion, so several relatives can keep a part. Remember that dividing remains requires the consent of the person who authorized the cremation (Fla. Stat. 497.607).

Other memorials

• A memorial bench, tree or garden stone at home or in a community space
• A plaque or marker at a scattering location, where permitted
• A donation or scholarship in the person’s name

Keepsake and memorial items

• Keepsake memory boxesBoxes for letters, photos, jewelry and other personal items.
• Memorial jewelryLockets and pendants, including small keepsake pendants.
• Memorial garden stonesEngraved stones and markers for a home garden.

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Sources

• Florida Statutes 497.607
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Burial benefits

This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws and fees change; confirm details with the agency or a licensed professional. Editorial standards