Cremation is a process of reducing the human body to bone fragments using high heat and flame.

Any traditional funeral service with the body present can take place prior to the actual cremation. Or else, a memorial service can be held before/after the cremation.

Yes, a coffin is required for cremation.

Yes, immediate family members may view the deceased prior to cremation in our private viewing room. The deceased is first prepared for viewing, i.e. washed and dressed.

No, there are no facilities at the private crematorium to accommodate family members.

Today most religions allow cremation. Some people believe that cremation is against the teachings of the Bible, but it remains a very personal matter. Those who wish to be cremated should communicate their wishes to family members.

What happens when the body is presented for a cremation?
The officials responsible ensure that :

A. The cause of death (if Death by Natural Causes) must be confirmed by two independent medical practitioners. Then a Medical Referee assigned by the Council grants consent that cremation may take place. This is done after he/she has ascertained that :

B. In the event of an Unnatural Death, the Medical Referee will consent to cremation as soon as he/she has received the Schedule D, completed by the Pathologist who performed the autopsy.

No, the crematorium can only accommodate one coffin at a time during the cremation process.

There are some restrictions on what can be included in a coffin. Your Funeral Director can advise on these.

It is of utmost importance that you inform us of medical devices implanted into the deceased, such as a pacemaker, etc.

You may want to bring your own clothing for us to dress the deceased.

At Sonja Smith Funeral Group (Pty) Ltd, we allow you to write goodbye messages on the coffin. This is a good way of personalizing the funeral service and it does bring comfort to those left behind when reading the graffiti messages.