Letter to the Editor: Rep. Chris Humphrey: Condition of Roads In and Around Pinelawn Cemetery, Kinston, NC

Re: Letter of Concern — Condition of Roads In and Around Pinelawn Cemetery, Kinston, NC
Sent to members of the North Carolina Cemetery Commission

Dear Members of the North Carolina Cemetery Commission,

I am writing in my capacity as the State Representative for House District 12, which includes Lenoir County, to formally express my concern regarding the deteriorating condition of the roads in and around Pinelawn Cemetery in Kinston, North Carolina.

This matter is both personal and constituent-driven. My parents and grandparents are laid to rest at Pinelawn, and it is the cemetery where I myself intend to be buried one day. I have also heard directly from constituents in Lenoir County who have raised similar concerns about deteriorated road conditions, including potholes, uneven surfaces, and poor drainage, that make it difficult and, at times, unsafe for grieving families, elderly visitors, and funeral processions to navigate the grounds.

A cemetery is sacred ground, and the families who visit deserve safe and dignified access to the resting places of their loved ones. The current state of the roadways at Pinelawn falls short of that basic expectation, and I believe it warrants the Commission's attention.

I respectfully request that the Commission look into this matter, including whether the cemetery's management has been made aware of these concerns and what steps, if any, are planned to address the road conditions. I understand that the Commission's process begins with direct contact with cemetery management, followed by a formal written complaint to your office if the issue remains unresolved. I would be glad to assist in facilitating community input or a formal complaint submission if that would be helpful, and I would welcome any guidance your office can provide on the appropriate next steps.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your service to the families across North Carolina who rely on well-maintained cemeteries to honor their loved ones. Please do not hesitate to contact my office if I can provide additional information or assistance.

Sincerely,

Representative Chris Humphrey 

NC House District 12 

North Carolina General Assembly