Frequently Asked Questions:

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. If you select certain funeral arrangements, such as a funeral with viewing embalming may be necessary.

3. If I choose cremation, is it possible to have a viewing and a funeral service?
Yes, there are many options available for cremation services. You may choose to have an open casket with public viewing and a funeral service before cremation takes place.

4. How do I pre-arrange my funeral?
You have a couple of options. You can speak with your funeral director, or if you do not want to speak with a funeral director, a free Family Considerations Planning Guide is available at J.C. Green & Sons Funeral Home that will enable you to write down your wishes. If you would like a Free copy please call or come by or you can fill out our contact us form.

5. Are my prearrangements 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.

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

7. If I didn’t prearrange my funeral, who has the authority to make arrangements for me?
If the deceased did not pre-arrange their funeral prior to his or her death North Carolina General Statue 90-210.44 sets the order of persons who have the right to make this decision:
The surviving spouse, majority of the surviving children, Surviving parents, majority of the surviving siblings, majority of the persons in the classes of the next degrees of kinship, in descending order, who would inherit from the decedent, if he or she died without a will. A person who has shown special care and concern for the decedent and who is willing and able to make decisions about the disposition. This statue doesn’t settle all problems. For example, if there are four children, and they vote two and two, either they will have to reason among themselves further and work out their differences or they will have to take their dispute to court. The statue sets out the order of persons who have the right to make decisions concerning the disposition of the body for cremation or a traditional service or any other type of service.