When a loved one passes, the question of how to honor their memory often arises. As cremation becomes more common, families are exploring flexible and heartfelt memorial options—including burying cremated remains with another person. Whether it’s placing a spouse’s ashes in the same grave or adding a pet’s ashes to a family plot, this practice is growing in popularity.

In this blog, we’ll explore the most common questions around burying ashes with another person, what regulations to consider, emotional and financial factors, and how this choice can offer lasting comfort.

Can You Have Someone’s Ashes Buried With You?

Yes, in many cases, you can have someone’s ashes buried with you, provided cemetery policies and legal permissions are followed. This often occurs when a spouse passes and the surviving partner requests to be laid to rest together—either with a shared cremation urn, within the same burial plot, or in companion urns.

Common Practices Include:

• Placing ashes in the same grave plot.
• Interring cremated remains in an existing family grave.
• Using companion urns to bury two people side by side.

This practice offers emotional peace, reinforcing eternal bonds between spouses, siblings, parents, or close friends. However, cemetery regulations and space limitations can vary, so it's always important to consult with the cemetery or funeral home.

Can My Pet’s Ashes Be Buried With Me?

Another increasingly common question is: Can my pet’s ashes be buried with me? The answer depends on cemetery rules and local laws.

In Pet-Friendly Cemeteries:

• Some cemeteries now allow humans and pets to be buried together, especially in green cemeteries or hybrid memorial parks.
• Others offer designated pet sections or permit cremated pet remains to be placed within a casket or in a cremation urn next to the owner.

In Traditional Cemeteries:

• Rules may prohibit mixing human and animal remains.
• Cremated pet ashes may be permitted only in private plots or in separate containers.

Always ask the cemetery directly, as this option is becoming more available with growing demand for combined human and pet memorials.

Can Two Cremated Remains Be Buried Together?

Yes, two cremated remains can absolutely be buried together. In fact, this is a common practice for:

• Married couples
• Parents and children
• Siblings or close friends

Common Options:

• Single urns with divided compartments (called companion urns).
• Two separate urns placed in the same grave or niche.
• Scattering remains together in a memorial garden or designated location.

Many cemeteries offer companion plots or even double-depth burial spaces specifically designed to accommodate two cremation urns or a combination of casket and urn.

How Much Does It Cost to Bury Ashes in an Existing Grave?

The cost of burying cremated ashes in an existing grave is generally much lower than full-body burial. Costs can vary widely depending on the cemetery location, services, and whether a marker or engraving is added.

Can You Be Buried With Someone in the Same Casket?

While being buried in the same casket is rare and generally not permitted for two full bodies due to space, cremated remains are more flexible.

Common Alternatives:

• Place an urn inside the casket of the previously deceased loved one.
• Add cremated remains at the time of burial into the grave.
• Include ashes in a memorial pouch or urn capsule placed discreetly in the casket.

Funeral homes typically allow ashes to be buried in a casket if planned ahead and done respectfully. This symbolic gesture is often requested by spouses or parents wishing to remain close in eternity.

Can You Bury Husband and Wife in the Same Grave?

Yes, and in fact, burial of husband and wife in the same grave is a longstanding tradition. With the rise in cremation, there are now even more ways to do this.

Options Include:

• Double-depth burial plots: One casket buried above the other, or one casket with an urn.
• Side-by-side plots: Especially if both were cremated, allowing two urns in one headstone area.
• Shared headstones with names and inscriptions for both.

Cremation urns for couples—also called companion urns—are designed to hold the ashes of both partners and often come with engraved names and dates.

Benefits of Burying Ashes With Another Person

Choosing to bury ashes with a loved one is more than a logistical decision—it’s an emotional one. Here’s why many families find comfort in it:

Emotional Significance:

• Reinforces the bond between loved ones, even after death.
• Offers a shared memorial space for family and friends to visit.
• Allows surviving family members to be part of a lasting tribute.

Financial Advantage:

• Lower costs by sharing a burial plot or casket space.
• Reduced maintenance fees for cemeteries.
• Avoids the expense of purchasing an additional grave.

Things to Consider Before Burying Ashes Together

Before you make final arrangements, be sure to consider the following:

• Cemetery Regulations: Every cemetery has its own rules regarding multiple burials in a single grave.
• Legal Permissions: Always ensure you have written authorization, especially if you’re placing ashes in an already existing grave.
• Religious Guidelines: Some faiths have specific views on cremation or shared burials.
• Family Wishes: Always communicate openly with loved ones before making burial decisions.

Final Thoughts: Honoring Love and Legacy Through Shared Burial

In today’s evolving memorial landscape, the ability to bury cremated remains with another person is a powerful and meaningful choice. Whether it’s a spouse, sibling, parent, or even a beloved pet, this act symbolizes eternal connection and shared remembrance.

From companion urns to double-depth grave plots, there are more options than ever for families seeking personalized cremation memorials. And with lower costs and greater flexibility, cremation burials continue to grow as a respectful and accessible way to honor life and love.