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INFORMATION


FORMS




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.

Common Questions about Appropriate Funeral Etiquette Death is something most people deal with on rare occasions, therefore when someone close to you passes away you may experience uncertainty about the proper actions to take. While all families deal with grief differently, there are a few things you can do to alleviate their stresses. Below are common practices that occur after the death of someone. We have provided some common questions and suggestions to make this time a bit easier on both you and the family of the deceased. Home Visits Visiting the home is an appropriate thing to do when someone passes away. Past traditions have included providing food, childcare, or even running errands which can all be extremely helpful to the family.

1. When is an appropriate time to visit and how long should I stay?
Try to avoid early morning and late evening visits as well as a few hours prior to any funeral ceremonies. Fifteen minutes is a good time frame to visit. Anything more can be a bit overwhelming.

2. Who should visit the home?
Anyone can visit the home, but if you are a distant friend the visitation/family night may provide a more comfortable setting.

3. Should I take food?
Food has been a tradition with funeral ceremonies for decades. Providing a meal for the family is a wonderful gesture and time saver. Meals that are easy to transport for you and easy to reheat are the best ideas.

Family Night/Visitation
The visitation/family night is the setting for the community of friends to gather and express their condolences. Whether the traditional family night with the family line or the “mingling” visitation, many people ask the same questions.

1. What is appropriate to say to someone at this time?
Sometimes the less said the better. Telling the family how much you respected or cared about their loved one, sharing fond memories, or just expressing your deepest sympathy is often enough. Avoid phrases that may be well intended but that can be misinterpreted, such as, “They are better off now.”, “I’ve been through this too. In time you will be fine.”, or “Time will heal all.” It is oftentimes more appropriate to avoid discussing the cause or manner of death. And remember, just being present shows that you care and is often more substantial than words.

2. What should I wear?
Family night is not as formal as the funeral. A more laid back style is often appropriate. For men anything from a suit to khaki’s and a golf shirt is common. For women dresses or dress pants are often worn.

3. How do I approach the family line?
In many cases, you may not know the entire family of the deceased. A good idea is to go through the line expressing your sympathies and casually introducing yourself and your tie to those you may not know. Keep the line moving; move to the side if you are going to carry on a lengthy conversation with a family member. This will direct the people following to go around you and proceed with their visit.

Funeral Service
The funeral is a more formal affair than the visitation. It is more structured and ceremonial than family night. Below are a few common questions many people ask. 1. Should I plan on visiting with the family at the funeral? The timeframe of the event often restricts the family’s ability to interact with attendees. If you cannot attend the visitation period, perhaps a visit to the home at a later time would be more appropriate.

2. When should I arrive?
It is a good idea to arrive 20 minutes prior to service time. This gives you time to find parking as well as seating.

3. What should I wear?
Attire for a funeral is a bit more formal than the family night. Men often wear suits or dress pants and a tie. Women wear suits, dresses, or dress pants.

Funeral Procession
If one chooses to attend a burial and will be following the funeral procession it is very important you follow instructions given by the funeral home staff member.

1. Where do I park to go in the procession?
In most cases, a staff member will be parking vehicles and will direct you to the proper spot. It is a good idea to tell the staff member if you are a pall bearer to ensure proper directions.

2. How will I be recognized as being part of the procession?
When part of a procession, turn your lights on and hazards if equiped. Pay attention and be careful, not everyone on the highway may recognize a procession.