Funeral & Cremation Options in San Antonio: What Families Should Know

What Are the Main Funeral Options in San Antonio?

Funerals remain an important tradition for many families in Texas. A funeral typically includes a service with family and friends, the presence of the body, and either burial or cremation afterward.

The most common types of funeral services include:

Traditional Funeral Services

A traditional funeral is usually held at a chapel, church, or funeral home. It includes a viewing or visitation, a formal ceremony, and either burial or cremation. These services often follow religious or cultural practices, providing comfort and familiarity to families.

Graveside Service

Some families prefer a simpler ceremony held at the graveside. This may include prayers, readings, and participation in lowering the casket. Graveside services are often shorter but still meaningful.

Memorial Services

If the body is not present, families may choose a memorial service. This can be scheduled at a later date, allowing relatives from out of town to gather. Memorials are flexible and can be held in a chapel, home, or community space.

At Puente & Sons, we provide all of these funeral service options, ensuring families have the ability to choose what best fits their traditions and circumstances.

What Cremation Options Are Available in San Antonio?

Cremation has grown in popularity across Texas because it offers flexibility, affordability, and multiple ways to memorialize a loved one. Families can choose from several service options, including:

Direct Cremation

Direct cremation is the simplest and most affordable option. The cremation occurs shortly after death, without a formal service beforehand. Families may still hold a private gathering or memorial at a later time.

Cremation with a Funeral Service

Some families prefer to combine cremation with a traditional funeral. This may include a viewing and service, followed by cremation instead of burial.

Cremation with Memorial Service

In this option, the cremation takes place first, and the family holds a memorial service later with or without the cremated remains present.

Permanent Resting Place Options

Cremated remains can be buried in a family plot, placed in a columbarium, scattered in a meaningful location, or kept in a decorative urn at home. At Puente & Sons, we guide families through these choices so they can select an option that reflects their wishes.

How Do Costs Compare Between Funerals and Cremations?

For many families in San Antonio, cost is an important factor in making arrangements. Generally, cremation is more affordable than burial because it does not require embalming, a casket, or cemetery property.

Funeral Costs typically include:

• Professional services and staff
  
  
• Transportation of the deceased
  
  
• Embalming and preparation (if chosen)
  
  
• Casket and burial vault
  
  
• Chapel or church service
  
  
• Cemetery fees
  
  

Cremation Costs usually include:

• Professional services and staff
  
  
• Transportation of the deceased
  
  
• Cremation process
  
  
• Urn selection
  
  
• Optional services such as a memorial or chapel ceremony
  
  

While cremation is often less expensive, both funerals and cremations can be personalized to fit different budgets. At Puente & Sons Funeral Chapels, our staff is committed to transparency, providing clear pricing so families can make informed decisions without added stress.

How Do Cultural and Religious Traditions Influence These Choices?

San Antonio is home to a rich blend of cultures, including Hispanic, Catholic, Protestant, and many other communities. Each culture carries unique traditions when it comes to funerals and cremations.

• Catholic families often prefer a traditional funeral mass followed by burial, though cremation has become more accepted in recent years.
  
  
• Hispanic families may choose extended visitations with prayers, music, and gatherings that reflect strong family bonds.
  
  
• Military families in San Antonio often request veterans’ honors, including flag presentations and military rites.
  
  
• Other faiths and traditions may guide choices such as cremation, memorial services, or alternative rites.
  
  

At Puente & Sons, we respect all traditions and provide services that reflect each family’s values and beliefs. Our staff is experienced in planning services that honor cultural customs while providing comfort to the living.

What Personalization Options Are Available?

Funerals and cremations are not one-size-fits-all. Families often want to create unique tributes that celebrate the individuality of their loved one.

We offer a variety of personalization options, including:

• Tribute videos that combine photos and music
  
  
• Keepsakes and jewelry that hold a portion of cremated remains
  
  
• Custom caskets and urns designed to reflect personal style
  
  
• Live streaming services so relatives who cannot attend in person can still participate
  
  
• Memory tables and displays that showcase hobbies, achievements, and personal artifacts
  
  

These elements help turn a funeral or memorial into a true celebration of life.

How Are Veterans’ Funerals Handled in San Antonio?

San Antonio has a proud military community, and at Puente & Sons, we believe there is no greater honor than serving those who have served our country. Veterans may be eligible for benefits such as burial in a national cemetery, a government-issued headstone, military honors, and survivor benefits for their families.

Our directors assist families in applying for these benefits and arranging ceremonies that include flag presentations, taps, and military escort when appropriate. This ensures veterans receive the recognition they deserve.

Why Do Families Choose Puente & Sons?

For more than 26 years, Puente & Sons Funeral Chapels has served the San Antonio community with sincerity, compassion, and dedication. As a family-owned business, we prioritize personal care and affordability without compromising dignity or quality.

Our team follows a simple philosophy: guide families with compassion and respect, without pressure or influence on their choices. Every family deserves the opportunity to honor their loved one in the way that feels right for them, regardless of tradition or budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Funeral and Cremation in San Antonio

How quickly do I need to make funeral arrangements?

Funeral arrangements are typically made within 24 to 48 hours after a loved one passes. Our staff is available to guide you immediately, so you can make decisions without feeling rushed.

Is cremation allowed in all religions?

Cremation is widely accepted today, though some faiths still prefer traditional burial. We recommend families consult their faith leaders if they are unsure.

Can I have both a viewing and cremation?

Yes. Many families choose to have a visitation and service before cremation, allowing friends and family to say goodbye.

What if I cannot afford a full funeral service?

We offer a range of affordable packages and payment options, ensuring every family can find a meaningful solution within their budget.

Do I need to purchase cemetery property for cremation?

Not necessarily. Families can choose to scatter ashes, keep them at home, or place them in a columbarium. Burial of cremated remains is also an option.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Path for Your Family

Deciding between funeral and cremation services in San Antonio is a deeply personal choice influenced by tradition, culture, and financial considerations. What matters most is creating a meaningful service that honors your loved one and provides comfort to those left behind.

At Puente & Sons Funeral Chapels, we are committed to guiding families through these decisions with compassion, transparency, and respect. Whether you choose a traditional burial, cremation, or personalized memorial, our team is here to ensure the process is simple, affordable, and dignified.



If you are ready to begin planning or would like more information about our San Antonio funeral services, we invite you to contact us today. Our dedicated staff is available to answer your questions and help you every step of the way.