Riverside Cemetery
53 Birch St, Asheville, NC, 28801
About Riverside Cemetery
Founded in 1885, this green space is filled with tombs & is the burial place of author Thomas Wolfe.
Questions to Ask When You Call
You're not expected to know this. These questions help you compare and avoid surprises.
“Can I see your General Price List?”
Federal law (FTC Funeral Rule) requires them to give you itemized pricing. You have every right to ask.
“Do you accept insurance assignment?”
This means they bill the insurance company directly. You don't pay thousands upfront and wait to be reimbursed.
“What's included vs. what's extra?”
Packages may not include everything. Ask about the casket, embalming, transportation, facility fees, and death certificate copies.
Know Your Rights
The FTC Funeral Rule protects you. Every funeral home must provide an itemized General Price List if you ask — in person or over the phone. You are never required to buy a package and can choose services individually. You also have the right to use a casket purchased elsewhere.
Payment & Financial Options
Average in North Carolina
$2,246 – $7,063
Source: NFDA 2023 · Direct cremation to traditional burial
If they had life insurance, it can cover this
Funerals in this area run $2,246–$7,063. If your loved one had a life insurance policy, the benefit can cover these costs — and we'll file the claim and handle the carrier for you, even without the policy number. $0 upfront, and nothing if it doesn't pay out.
Business Hours
What Families Say
“A very historic cemetery, on rolling, tree-covered grounds. Established in 1885. It overlooks the French Broad River and contains 87 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds on five terraced levels with more than three miles of roads. Oaks, poplars, evergreens, dogwoods, mimosas, azaleas, rhododendrons, and laurels shade the unusual monuments and mausoleums. Take your time and grab a map at the visitors center nearby.”
— Chad S.
“When I first moved to Asheville (lived there for 7 years) I was fascinated by the Monteford neighborhood with this Historic cemetery nearby. I took a stroll there and came upon Thomas Wolfe’s gravestone. “The mountains were his masters. They rimmed in life. They were the cup of reality, beyond growth, beyond struggle and death. They were his absolute unity in the midst of eternal change.” Thomas Wolfe, Look Homeward, Angel”
— Kelly A. Calhoun
“This historical sanctuary is both peaceful and beautiful. I went here to visit the grave of one of my favorite writers, O Henry. Thomas Wolfe is also buried here. There are signs to point one in the direction. This hilly and old resting place, nestled in the nice Montford area, is truly a respite, a place that is both sacred but also very meditative.”
— J.J. Colagrande
We can help with what comes next.
We file the life insurance claim and recover unclaimed property — the payout can help cover costs like these. $0 upfront.
Are you Riverside Cemetery?
Claim your free listing to receive the families we connect you with, show your services and pricing, and partner with MedaSynq — at no cost.
Claim your free listing