Body Disposition

Making Arrangements

After death, one of the most important decisions involves how the body will be cared for. Families today can choose from a wide range of options, from traditional burial and cremation to newer practices such as aquamation (water “cremation”), natural decomposition, or donation for science and medicine.

Each option has its own practical, cultural, financial, and environmental considerations. This section explains the choices available so you and your loved ones can make informed decisions that reflect your values and circumstances.

Body & Organ Donation

This section explains the key differences between organ donation, tissue donation, and whole body donation. Each serves a unique purpose—saving lives, restoring health, or advancing medical research—and each has its own requirements and process. Understanding these options can help you choose the form of donation that best reflects your values and wishes.

Burial & Embalming

There are MANY traditions and options around preparing a body for burial. Our purpose here is to highlight the difference between what most funeral homes will offer, the role of embalming, and a “green” burial which likely requires a special search for those providers.