Cremated Ashes to Artificial Reefs

When the time comes, families and individuals who choose cremation over burial now have a new option as well. They may choose to have their ashes used to create an artificial reef.

Whether someone was an avid environmentalist or they just always loved being around the water, this service is a heart-warming way to memorialize lost loved ones.

How Eternal Reefs Began

In 1992, a group of college friends created an environmentally friendly concrete formula and a patented mold system to accompany it that could be used to replenish dying natural reefs.

In effect, the Reef Ball Foundation was founded by Don Brawley and friends. They began creating artificial reef balls to help protect and restore dying reefs all along the Eastern United States coastline.

In 1998, Don Brawley’s father-in-law, Carleton Glen Palmer, made a special request. He requested that his ashes be mixed in with the concrete of one of the artificial reefs when he died. Carleton passed away soon after making the request. "Until the funeral director put his remains in my hands, I had forgotten about this casual conversation we had over dinner," says Don Brawley.

Since then, Eternal Reefs was formed as a partner of the Reef Ball Foundation, and this memorial service has been open to any and all who are interested.

Eternal Reef Memorials Today

The Eternal Reef organization has grown since it was founded. Here is some information that could be helpful for individuals considering the memorial service for themselves or family members:

• Over 300 Memorial Reefs, have been placed off the coasts of Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Maryland, New Jersey, Texas and Virginia.
• Prices range between $2,495 and $6,495 depending on size.
• Sizes of the reefs range from 395 pounds to 4,000 pounds.
• They offer military honors programs, final expense programs to help individuals save family members from additional charges, and even a reef option for pets.
• A bronze plaque with an inscription is attached to the reef.
• Family members receive two memorial certificates which say the exact coordinates that the individual chose as their final resting place.
• Reefs can only be placed in certain areas, check their website to find more information.

Why People Choose Eternal Reefs Over Ash Scattering and Cremation Urns

The concept of helping the environment even after they die is very appealing to some. Others may enjoy the idea of being surrounded by the ocean and all of the excitement it brings for 500 more years.

No matter what the reason may be, people who do elect to have their ashes placed in an artificial reef are doing a great service for their Earth. And as President John F Kennedy said, “We are tied to the ocean, and when we go back to the sea... we are going back from whence we came.”

References

Eternal Reefs official Website

Eternal Reef underwater

Bronze memorial plaque on reef

Message of love written on reef

Loved ones gather around

Military Honors ceremony

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