As othrs have said, there can be reasons - post mortem, investigatons, tests, inquest, but if those aren't needed, it dosn't usually take that long. That said, if its an unexpected death then it is sometimes helpful to have a little time between the death and the funeral, to be able to take some time to make plans and not just be rushed into decison when you are numb. read more
The deceased stays in a safe, climate-controlled environment while death and cremation documents are processed. Many states have a specific waiting period, for example, two days, and require authorization for cremation by a coroner or medical examiner. read more
Typically, state law requires a minimum number of hours between the time of death and when the cremation occurs (frequently 48 hours). Only the County Medical Examiner or a Justice of the Peace may waive this requirement. read more