Cremation Services

Alkaline Hydrolysis

A gentle, water-based alternative to flame-based cremation. Your funeral director manages every step on your family's behalf, working with a trusted facility that carries out the process. The result is the same as cremation, achieved through nature's own method of decomposition.

Helping You Decide

For Families Who Want a Gentler Alternative to Flame-Based Cremation

Alkaline hydrolysis is sometimes called water cremation. It uses a gentle solution of water and potassium hydroxide to facilitate the same natural process of decomposition that occurs over time in the earth, simply in a controlled and accelerated way. The process leaves behind bone, which is then reduced to a consistency similar to traditional flame-based cremation, and a sterile liquid.

Many families choose this option because it feels gentler, because they have environmental considerations, or simply because it feels right for their loved one. It is a newer option in North Carolina, and we are happy to walk you through exactly how it works if you have questions.

This process is treated with the same care, respect, and attention as every other service we provide. A gentler process does not mean a lesser one.

How We Care for Your Family

Everything Included, from the First Call to the Return of Your Loved One

Your funeral director manages every step of this process on your family's behalf, working with a trusted facility that carries out the alkaline hydrolysis. Your loved one remains in our care until the process begins and the resulting remains are returned to your family in the same way as a traditional cremation.

Everything that's included
Basic services of our funeral director and staff
Transportation of your loved one into our care from anywhere within North Carolina
Coordination of the alkaline hydrolysis process, from start to finish
Three certified death certificates
A wooden rectangular urn for the return of your loved one's remains
All required paperwork, fees, and NC Sales Tax
Everything included for
$
2,640.59

All Cremation Options

Cremation looks different for every family. The options below each offer something a little different, and if you are not sure which fits your situation, we will walk you through it together.
Cremation
Cremación

Direct Cremation

Cremation without a formal viewing or service. Everything handled by our staff, start to finish.

$
1196.75
Cremation
Cremación

With Visitation

A gathering in our chapel for up to 44 guests over two hours, so family and friends can come together before cremation takes place.

$
1917.84
Cremation
Cremación

Private Family Viewing

Adds a private hour with your loved one for up to 10 immediate family members before cremation takes place.

$
1596.75

What Happens When You Reach Out

You don't need to have everything figured out before you call. That's what we're here for. Here's what the process looks like.
01

Give Us a Call

A funeral director will answer, day or night. We'll ask a few simple questions about your situation and help you understand what needs to happen first. There's no rush and no pressure.
02

We Explain Your Options

We'll walk through the services available, what each one includes, and what everything costs. We want your family to feel informed and comfortable with whatever you choose.
03

We Handle the Details

Once your family has made its decisions, we take care of paperwork, coordination, transportation, and the care of your loved one. You tell us what you need and we make it happen.
04

We Stay in Touch

Throughout the process, we keep your family informed. If you have questions at any point, we're a phone call away. We're here until everything is complete and your family feels at peace.

What Families Have Shared with Us

Over 14 years, we've had the privilege of serving thousands of families across North Carolina.

"I have been absolutely astounded at the kindness and professionalism of City of Oaks. They have made the hardest time of my life - losing my father - so much easier with regard to everything that comes after."
"City Of Oaks made a very sad and emotionally draining experience as easy as it could possibly be. Somer and her staff were extremely caring, informative, and made this process a smooth one. From the initial meeting, to the choices of services/products, and the final acceptance, we always felt our needs and feelings were the upmost importance. Also, all costs are set out initially, and there are no “hidden fees” or necessary add-ons."
"The compassion and kindness and generosity shown by Edward and Trey to my family and me during a really sad time made the cremation process more bearable. It was important to us to know that our loved one was being received and cared for in a respectful and loving way. They took time to let us share with them about our loved one and we felt comforted. They were very thoughtful with their suggestions and showed us they genuinely cared about how our loss affected each member of our family. They were truly a blessing to us!"

We're Here When You're Ready

If you need help now, call us. You can reach us anytime — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Prefer to send a message? Reach out whenever you’re ready, and we’ll respond as soon as possible. There is no wrong time or wrong way to contact us.