Nautilus Society

In December of 2014 I lost my best friend and partner in life. Prior to her death she chose direct cremation and the Neptune Society for disposition. They had one of the lowest costs in the area and nearly half of what a local mortuary quoted us. We did not make any pre-​need arrangements, however. Then she died very suddenly one day. I had read some complaints about certain Neptune Society locations so I went with one of their affiliates Nautilus Society. They were very responsive, compassionate and professional. They were available almost immediately to pick her up. They kept in constant communication with me during the entire process. Even though they explained to me the process they followed to ensure that I would receive the proper ashes I still decided to pay a hefty fee (around $ 300) to witness her cremation. Within a couple of weeks I picked up the ashes, official copies of the death certificate and permits. The total cost was around $ 1,500.
Direct cremation is the way to go. It is not only cheaper, but far less morbid. The huge advantage is that you do not have to very hurriedly make decisions on funeral and burial arrangements while you are most vulnerable emotionally. I was able to take my time in arranging her funeral mass, luncheon and personal tribute to her. It also allowed family members plenty of time to put the memorial date on their calendars. I was also able to personally carry her ashes back to her hometown in New England for burial in the family plot. That is a huge advantage of cremation. The urn is so small that you can bury it in an existing grave thus avoiding the cost of purchasing a plot and gravestone.
I am sorry that the previous poster had difficulty getting information from them. Unfortunately, the telephone number listed on their website is a central number in Northern California. I had a bit of a problem getting through too until I found the direct number to the Lawndale office. It is (310) 370‑8080.

I have been trying to contact this business to find out about their services for cremation & scattering the ashes at sea. Now, when you are talking about making final arrangements for yourself or a loved one, you are going to want to count on them being RESPONSIVE & ORGANIZED. It’s been 4 days since my first contact, and I have called them twice — still no answer! Does not seem like they would take care of things expeditiously if they can’t even return a sales phone call!
I will update this review as things unfold (if they do!)