Body Identification and Cremation Services

Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation • July 27, 2020

Many bereaved express concerns about how their loved one will be identified during a cremation service. Learn more about the systems in place to ensure identification.

One of the main concerns the bereaved have with cremation services in Dixon, IL is how their loved one’s remains will be identified throughout the cremation process. Many people hear false horror stories of families being returned the wrong cremains or just being given bags of wood ash or even of sand. These rumors lead to a lot of concern over the cremation identification process. However, there is no reason for these concerns as all licensed cremation providers have thorough and effective identification procedures in place to ensure accuracy and dignity.

Most licensed cremation providers are more than happy to walk clients through their individual identification process. Don’t be ashamed to ask for these details, as most cremation businesses understand these concerns and are happy to help alleviate them. It’s important for you to be 100% comfortable with your provider and their practices. It can be difficult to ask questions surrounding such delicate and potentially painful topics.

If you’re unsure of what to ask surrounding identification during the cremation process, try these questions such as “How are the deceased identified?”, “How does this process change if I am not there when he or she passes?” or “How can I be sure my loved one is the one you are cremating?” You can also ask, “How can I be sure of this if I choose a cremation without a viewing?” or “In what ways do you certify that the ashes I am returned are those of my loved one?” If the cremation provider is unable or unwilling to answer questions such as these, consider taking your business elsewhere. It’s vital that you feel comfortable with the cremation process.

In most states, crematories are obligated by law to carry out two different identification processes to ensure the deceased are correctly identified based on the name provided by the authorized agent or the bereaved. First, the deceased’s name, as provided by the bereaved or authorized agent, will be clearly listed on the cremation container. Second, a metal bracelet, disk or other token will be placed in the container with the deceased. This metal tag will not be broken down during the cremation process and will remain with the cremated ashes to further ensure identification.

If you’re still not comfortable with the identification process, you can always ask for additional identification steps. For example, you can ask for a detailed explanation of the cremation process in writing, have the cremation provider do a comparison of the deceased to a current photo of your loved one before the cremation begins, ask the cremation provider to do a final identification check based on a listed unique detail like a tattoo or birth mark.

If you would like to learn more about the body identification process during cremation or Dixon, IL cremation services, Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation is here to help. You can stop by and visit us at 702 1st Ave Sterling, IL 61081 or give us a call at (815) 626-1131 for more information on what we can do for you.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Honoring A Loved One with Direct Cremation Service

December 8, 2025

Saying goodbye to someone you love is one of the most profound experiences a family can face, and during such emotional times many turn to cremation services Morrison, IL for guidance that feels compassionate and clear. Grief can create uncertainty, and it becomes especially important to have caring professionals who can offer structure while ensuring your wishes are honored with sincerity and respect. At Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation, we understand the need for patience, warmth, and gentle direction. We believe every tribute should reflect the individuality of the person being remembered, and we support families with steady reassurance as they make meaningful decisions during a difficult moment. Creating Meaningful Moments of Remembrance Honoring a loved one begins with understanding the moments, memories, and qualities that made their life special. Families often find comfort in selecting elements that reflect their loved one’s personality, such as thoughtfully chosen music, heartfelt messages, cherished photographs, or symbolic touches that highlight what mattered most to them. These details bring warmth to the experience and offer a sense of connection for those who gather to remember. Our role is to help families feel supported as they make these choices, creating a setting that encourages reflection, comfort, and togetherness during an emotionally tender time. Guiding Families with Steady and Compassionate Support We understand that planning can feel overwhelming when emotions are strong, which is why supportive guidance matters so deeply. As families sort through decisions, we provide clarity to help them feel grounded and informed. With each step, we answer questions, offer thoughtful suggestions, and provide gentle direction so the process feels less daunting. Many families appreciate knowing they are not alone but instead have a caring partner to help them create a tribute that feels heartfelt and peaceful. For those who wish to explore service options further, more information is available at our service page section. Honoring Every Family’s Needs with Flexibility and Care Every family brings different wishes, traditions, and expectations to the planning process, which is why flexibility can bring comfort. Some prefer a quiet, intimate gathering, while others may want a more structured setting that brings people together to share memories and support one another. Our approach allows families to move at their own pace and choose what feels right for them. When their preferences are honored, families are better able to focus on reflection rather than stress, creating a tribute that feels genuine and aligned with their values. This kind of supportive environment helps the healing process begin naturally. A Thoughtful Approach to Honoring a Life When faced with the passing of a loved one, families often experience a mix of emotions and questions. What should the tribute look like? Which elements reflect their personality best? How can we ensure the farewell feels heartfelt and respectful? This is where having an experienced and compassionate partner becomes invaluable. We help families create a tribute that preserves their loved one’s story while also providing comfort through every decision. Because every life is unique, the details you choose help shape a farewell rooted in love, reflection, and connection. Honoring a loved one is a significant act of love, and choosing supportive professionals can bring comfort and clarity when you need it most. If your family is looking for compassionate guidance while considering cremation services Morrison, IL, we invite you to reach out to Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation so we can help you create a meaningful tribute shaped with care, understanding, and warmth. Our team is here to offer steady support and thoughtful direction, helping your family move forward with peace while ensuring your loved one’s life is remembered with dignity and heartfelt appreciation.