What Happens to the Coffin During and After a Crematorium Service?

At Quantock Funeral Directors, we understand how important it is for families to feel at ease with the cremation process. Many people have questions about what happens to the coffin during and after a crematorium service, and we’re here to provide clear answers, especially for those planning a funeral in our local area.

The Crematorium Service: What to Expect

When you arrive at the crematorium, the coffin is placed on the catafalque, a platform at the front of the service room. This is often a central point of focus, where flowers and personal touches, such as a photograph of your loved one, are gently placed to honour their memory.

During the service, family and friends gather to pay their respects. Whether the service is religious or non-religious, the catafalque serves as a respectful place for the coffin to rest. In some crematoriums, at the end of the service, the coffin may descend, be moved, or taken away visibly. However, here at our local crematorium, the coffin remains in place throughout.

At the end of the Service: Curtain Options

At the close of the service, there are typically a few different curtain options, depending on the family's preference:

Curtains Remain Open: This allows mourners to have one last view of the coffin before leaving the room.

Curtains Close Fully: For some families, drawing the curtains closed offers a sense of closure.

Veil Closes: In some instances, a sheer veil may be drawn, creating a softer, more gradual farewell.

Each of these options can be arranged in line with your personal wishes or religious customs.

What Happens Next?

Once the service has concluded and all mourners have left the room, the crematorium staff take responsibility for the next step. Discreetly and respectfully, the staff will move the coffin from the catafalque through a side door into the back area of the crematorium, ready for cremation.

It's important to know that the coffin does not move during the service or while guests are present. This can provide comfort to those concerned about the visual aspects of cremation.

Behind the Scenes: Preparing for Cremation

Once the coffin has been taken through the back door, it is prepared for the cremation process. This is done with the utmost respect and dignity. Modern crematoriums follow strict guidelines to ensure that every cremation is handled professionally and in line with both legal and ethical standards.

The entire process is carefully managed by trained staff, ensuring the correct identification