GSMC – FAQs

How many burials can the cemetery manage in a day?
Depending upon the circumstances, weather conditions and staff working hours, GSMC can accommodate up to 3 burials per day. Time slots of 10am, 1PM and 4PM remain consistent throughout the year. 

How soon can we announce a Janazah/Burial?
GSMC will not make announcements, and we leave it up to the family and the community. GSMC highly recommends waiting until burial permit has been received as no one can guarantee the timing of it. In certain situations, coroner’s office can delay issuing the burial permit.
 
Can we pray Janazah but leave the body in cold storage if burial permit is not received?
GSMC will accommodate for a Janazah prayer before burial permit is received. However, after the prayer, body will be stored in our cold storage and buried the next day. 

Does the cemetery wash bodies/Ghusl?
Ghusl service is included in our burial package. GSMC allows one family member to observe ghusl service. 

Can I use the ghusl room but bury at another cemetery?
GSMC’s ghusl facility can be used on a-la-carte basis for $750.

Do you have any payment plans for cemetery fees?
Unfortunately, no. GSMC does not offer any payment plans. All fees need to be paid in advance of the burial. GSMC does not accept payments from third parties.

Can I make a cash payment?
We prefer credit/debit cards, cashier’s check and money order. However, we will take a cash payment if no other form of payment is suitable for the family.

I am a Muslim, but I don’t know much about the burial process. Could you explain the burial process for me?
Our website – www.smcemetery.com - has all the information about burial process, fees and general guidelines. GSMC allows every Muslim to be buried according to the Sharia that he/she follows.
If the family can certify on the burial forms that the deceased was a Muslim, we honor that proclamation.

How much is the replacement headstone?
The headstone for all burials are required for identification purposes and cost is included in the burial package.
Replacement cost of an existing headstone is $1000.00 – which includes installation as well.

Is there any moisture/water inside gravesites?
Almost every cemetery in the USA that uses vaults/liners have chances of having some type of moisture/water in the graves.
However, one will never be buried in moisture/water. GSMC takes all the necessary steps while observing regulatory guidelines to remove all moisture/water from the graves to make them as dry as possible before burial takes place.

I don’t want to step down into the grave; can we bury my loved one in a box or casket?
GSMC allows the families to make that decision and choice with guidance from their appointed Imam. We will never enforce anything that the family does not want to do.

I don’t know what to do at the gravesite?
GSMC has its operations team and volunteers on the ground at every burial. They will guide you through the whole process to make it easy for you and your family.