Which term means disposition of human remains by cremation without a formal viewing, visitation, or ceremony with the body present?

• A. Direct Cremation
• B. Funeral Ceremony
• C. Memorial Service
• D. Graveside Service

Answer: (A)

Direct cremation is the disposition of human remains by cremation without a formal viewing, visitation, or ceremony with the body present. This means the cremation occurs without the family having a traditional opportunity to view the body in a casket or hold a formal service before the cremation. It differs from a funeral ceremony, which includes a viewing or visitation with the body present; a memorial service, which takes place after the cremation and typically involves no body present; and a graveside service, which is a ceremony held at the cemetery, often with the urn or casket at the grave. Because the definition specifies cremation without any body-present viewing or ceremony, direct cremation is the term that fits.