1. What is embalming?
Embalming is the process of chemically treating the dead human body to reduce the presence and growth of microorganisms, to reduce organic decomposition, and to restore an acceptable physical appearance.

2. Is embalming required by law?
Except in certain cases, embalming is not required by law. Embalming may be necessary, however, if you select certain funeral arrangements, such as a funeral with viewing.

3. Is a vault (outer burial container) required by law?
North Carolina law does not require a vault (outer burial container); however, most cemeteries require either a grave liner or a burial vault. In most areas of the country, state or local laws do not require that you buy a container to surround the casket in the grave.

4. If I choose cremation, is it possible to have a viewing and funeral service?
Yes. There are many options available for cremation services. Many families choose to have an open casket with public viewing and a funeral service before the actual cremation takes place.

5. How do I pre-arrange my funeral?
You have a couple of options. You can make an appointment with your local funeral director, or if you do not want to speak with a funeral director, a free Planning Guide is available through Hayworth-Miller Funeral Home that will enable you to write down your wishes and preferences. If you would like to make plans today with Hayworth-Miller Funeral Home, please complete our Online Prearrangement Form located on our pre planning page.

6. If I didn't prearrange my cremation, who has the authority to sign the cremation authorization form.?
If the deceased person did not arrange for the cremation prior to death. NC General Statute 90-210.124 sets out the order of persons who have the right to make the decision: (a) The surviving spouse. (b) A majority of the surviving children who are at least 18 years of age and can be located after reasonable efforts. (C) The surviving parents. (d.) A majority of the surviving siblings who are at least 18 years of age and can be located after reasonable efforts. (e) A majority of the persons in the classes of the next degrees of kinship, in descending order, who, under State law, would inherit the decedent's estate if the decedent died intestate who are at least 18 years of age and can be located after reasonable efforts. (f) A person who has exhibited special care and concern for the decedent and is willing and able to make decisions about the cremation and disposition. (g) In the case of indigents or any other individuals whose final disposition is the responsibility of the State or any of its instrumentalities, a public administrator, medical examiner, coroner, State-appointed guardian, or any other public official charged with arranging the final disposition of the decedent may serve as the authorizing agent. (h) In the case of individuals who have donated their bodies to science or whose death occurred in a nursing home or private institution and in which the institution is charged with making arrangements for the final disposition of the decedent, a representative of such institution may serve as the authorizing agent in the absence of any of the above. This statute doesn't settle all problems. For example, if there are 4 children and they vote 2 and 2, either they will have to reason among themselves further and work out their differences, or else they will have to take their dispute to court. Regardless if it is cremation, this statute sets out the order of persons who have the right to make decisions concerning the disposition of the body. Hayworth-Miller Funeral Home requires all to sign and not just the majority.

7. If I prearrange my services, how can I be sure my wishes will be carried out?
The same statute discussed in question 6 above, deals with this issue. An individual at least 18 years of age may authorize the type, place, and method of disposition of the individual's own dead body by methods in the following order: (a) Pursuant to a preneed funeral contract executed pursuant to Article 13D of Chapter 90 of the General Statutes or pursuant to a cremation authorization form executed pursuant to Article 13C of Chapter 90 of the General Statutes. (b) Pursuant to a health care power of attorney to the extent provided in Article 3 of Chapter 32A of the General Statutes. (c) Pursuant to a written will. (d) Pursuant to a written statement other than a will signed by the individual and witnessed by two persons who are at least 18 years old. Any one of these indications will override the wishes of the family. Because this overrides the wishes of your next of kin, we strongly recommend you speak to your family before prearranging your services.

8. Is my prearrangement transferable?
Yes. Many people move to another town or simply change their preference of funeral homes. North Carolina law allows for pre-need transfers from one funeral home to another.

9. What is the law regarding funeral processions?
North Carolina General Statute 20-157.1 deals with the issue of funeral processions. This statute has been effective since December 1, 1999.