Can I “Split” Cremated Remains Into More Than One Urn?

Do you need to split the remains of a deceased loved one? You certainly can! There are several regulations governing ash spreading, but none governing ash division. Following a loved one's cremation, some families prefer to split the ashes. At Tindall Funeral Home, we urge you to consider the following as you manage the cremains and what you can do when family members cannot agree on a final resting spot for the ashes.

Why Should Ashes Be Divided Following Cremation?

There may be several reasons why you wish to split your loved one's ashes. Consider the following instances to determine whether this might be suitable:

• In their end-of-life plans, the deceased desired that their ashes be split.
• Your loved one may have preplanned their funeral and specified the division of cremated remains. If this is your loved one's final wish, you should probably do all possible to see that it is granted.
• Perhaps your dear one desired that a portion of their ashes be spread at their birthplace and the rest in the backyard of their family home.
• Alternatively, they might have chosen for most of the remains to be deposited in an urn and a portion of them to be dispersed at their favorite outdoor location.
• Regardless of the reason, it is critical to honor their final desires, whether you concur with them or not.
• The family cannot agree about what to do with their loved ones' cremated remains.
• Perhaps your mother or father did not leave final, clear instructions about the disposition of their remains. If this is the scenario, you and your siblings might have to agree on a final resting place. If distances are a problem, dividing the cremains is a good option.

What you need to know is that it’s possible to divide the ashes into more than one urn, and you can get the funeral home to help with this request. For more information on cremation, pre-planning services, or advice, contact Tindall Funeral Home at (315) 468-5521.