The word “aquamation” sounds as if something from an Aquaman movie, but it actually has to do with cremation. 

The Aloha state is revolutionizing the way we practice cremation. Underwater cremation, also known as aquamation or alkaline hydrolysis, is making waves in the funeral industry. Hawaii, with its breathtaking ocean vistas, is at the forefront of this eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation. In this article, we explore how Hawaii is leading the way in transforming the end-of-life ritual through innovative underwater cremation practices.

Hawaii’s pristine marine environment and deep cultural connection to the ocean have spurred the adoption of underwater cremation as a natural and sustainable option. This revolutionary process involves dissolving the body in a mixture of water and alkaline chemicals, resulting in gentle decomposition. The remains, known as “cremains,” can then be returned to the sea, honoring the Hawaiian belief in the circle of life and the eternal bond with the ocean.

Compared to traditional cremation methods, underwater cremation in Hawaii offers significant environmental advantages. The process consumes less energy, emits fewer greenhouse gases, and eliminates the need for embalming chemicals. Furthermore, it avoids the use of caskets and reduces land usage. By choosing underwater cremation, individuals can leave a smaller ecological footprint and contribute to the preservation of Hawaii’s natural beauty.

 For the people of Hawaii, the ocean is a sacred entity deeply intertwined with their culture and spirituality. Underwater cremation aligns with the Hawaiian belief in the spiritual significance of water and allows individuals to reconnect with their roots. This practice ensures a final farewell that harmonizes with cultural traditions, reflecting the profound respect and reverence for nature that defines the Hawaiian way of life.

 Hawaii’s innovative approach to underwater cremation offers a range of personalization options. Families can choose to witness the process through eco-friendly ceremonies conducted on specially designed vessels. Additionally, individuals can select personalized memorials such as biodegradable urns or living coral reef formations, creating a lasting tribute that resonates with their loved one’s unique connection to the ocean.

As the birthplace of underwater cremation, Hawaii is transforming the way we bid farewell to our loved ones. By embracing eco-friendly practices, preserving cultural traditions, and offering personalization options, Hawaii has become a pioneer in revolutionizing the funeral industry while honoring the profound connection between land, sea, and spirit.

You can read more about the process of aquamation, here. 

Naomi Judd was a famous American singer who passed away in 2022. She and her daughter, Wynonna, formed a very successful country band. Over time, Naomi battled with mental health issues and physical issues with hepatitis. Her daughter, Wynonna, enjoyed success both as a team with her mother and a solo artist after her mother was diagnosed with hepatitis. Ashley, Wynonna’s sister, has enjoyed success in her own right as a famous actress. She is also involved in humanitarian and global affairs. Both Ashley and Wynnona Judd  have a hefty combined net worth, given the success of their careers. 

Ashley and Wynnona Judd can more than manage their lives and finances on their own, but having a mother with multiple illnesses can no doubt be difficult. 

Naomi’s troubles came to end after the police found her with a self-inflicted gunshot wound in April of 2022. The sisters were both blind sighted by the fact that the pair were both seemingly disinherited from their mother’s Last Will and Testament. Instead, their deceased mother left behind her $25 million dollar fortune to her ex-husband, Larry Strickland. After the shock of this revelation wore off, the two hired a writing expert to analyze the writing in their mother’s Last Will and Testament. A handwriting expert by the name of Peggy Walla, (from Texas-based LPR Investigations) was brought in to analyze the deceased singer’s Last Will. Walla discovered that “The initials and signature are traced — they are not written by her. Usually when you are signing your name – the pen is already in motion when it starts to hit the paper and it gives it a feathered look where these are intentional ‘starts and stops.’” In other words, Walla is suggesting that Naomi’s 5-page Will was forged. If the Will was forged, what does Naomi’s ex-husband have to say about the matter? As of December 2022, there has been no conclusion to this issue as of yet. You can read more here.