Where Is Martin Luther King Jr. Buried? Honoring Legacies and Modern Cremation Choices

Key Takeaways

• Martin Luther King Jr. is buried at The King Center in Atlanta, Georgia
• Memorials reflect cultural and personal legacy—similar to modern choices like direct cremation and affordable cremation in California
• Understanding funeral traditions can help families plan meaningful services, including cremation in Los Angeles and Orange County
• EPA rules guide ash scattering at sea, a popular alternative to traditional burial
• Choosing a licensed cremation provider ensures dignity, transparency, and compliance

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Where Is Martin Luther King Jr. Buried?
• Other Prominent Black Figures and Their Final Resting Places
• From Historic Burials to Modern Cremation Choices
• Planning Ahead: Affordable Cremation in California
• FAQs
• Opal Resources
• Footnotes

Introduction

February is Black History Month, a time to honor the extraordinary lives of Black leaders who shaped history, but all year is a good time to honor the lives of inspiring individuals. Many families visit Martin Luther King Jr.’s burial site and the resting places of other influential figures to reflect on legacy and remembrance.

At Opal Cremation, we see every day how families create meaningful memorials—whether through traditional burial or affordable direct cremation in Los Angeles, Orange County, and throughout California. Understanding these historic sites can guide you as you plan a dignified farewell for your loved ones.

Martin Luther King Jr. – The King Center, Atlant

Martin Luther King Jr. is buried beside Ebenezer Baptist Church at The King Center in Atlanta, Georgia, alongside Coretta Scott King. His memorial at the National Historical Park is a symbol of peace and nonviolence, drawing millions of visitors annually.

“We are not makers of history. We are made by history.” 

– Martin Luther King Jr.

Burial Sites of Other Prominent Black Figures

Maya Angelou – Ashes Scattered on Storm King Mountain

Poet and activist Maya Angelou was cremated, and her ashes were scattered at Storm King Mountain overlooking the Hudson River. Her memorial reflects a growing trend toward cremation and ash scattering ceremonies, now chosen by over 70% of Californians.¹

Malcolm X – Ferncliff Cemetery

Malcolm X rests at Ferncliff Cemetery in Westchester County, New York. Known for his powerful oratory and leadership, his gravesite remains a place of reflection.

Harriet Tubman – Fort Hill Cemetery

Harriet Tubman’s grave in Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn, New York, is a site of tribute and remembrance. Visitors often leave compasses and personal tokens in her honor.

Shirley Chisholm – Forest Lawn Cemetery

Pioneer congresswoman Shirley Chisholm is buried in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Buffalo, New York. Her legacy continues to inspire women and people of color in public service.

Muhammad Ali – Cave Hill Cemetery

Muhammad Ali’s resting place in Louisville, Kentucky, honors the champion boxer and activist whose influence transcended sport.

Frederick Douglass – Mt. Hope Cemetery

Abolitionist Frederick Douglass is buried at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Rochester, New York. His site and that of Susan B. Anthony are among the most visited in the state.

From Historic Burials to Modern Cremation in California

These historic memorials highlight the enduring human need to honor loved ones. Today, many families in California are choosing cremation services as a simple, dignified, and affordable cremation option, whether they live in Los Angeles, Orange, or San Diego counties.

• Direct cremation near me: Streamlined, cost-effective, and respectful.
• Cremation in Los Angeles & Orange County: Local, licensed cremation providers with transparent pricing.
• Cremation cost California: Typically $800–$2,000; always request an itemized General Price List.

“Opal made a difficult time easier and handled everything with compassion and care.”

– Client Review

Planning Ahead

Whether you prefer traditional burial or a modern cremation service, planning ahead allows you to define how your legacy will be remembered.

Need help honoring the life of a loved one or planning for yourself? Opal Cremation offers:

• Licensed cremation services in California
• Affordable cremation options with no hidden fees
• Guidance on how to honor the extraordinary lives of loved ones who have passed

Contact us to learn more about your cremation and burial options or start arrangements today. 

Call us at 888-714-8481 or send us a message and we’ll get back to you immediately.

Send us a Message

FAQs

Is cremation more common than burial in California?

Yes. The National Funeral Directors Association reports that 70% of Californians now choose cremation over burial.¹

Can you host a memorial service if you choose cremation?

Yes, you can host a service if you choose cremation. Families can choose a cremation with a ceremony option, allowing them to say goodbye to their loved ones before cremation. They may also have a memorial ceremony after the cremation. 

What’s the cost of cremation in Orange County and Los Angeles?

According to Opal’s new Real Cost of Direct Cremation in Orange County | 2025, the average listed or advertised price for direct cremation in Orange County is about $1,700, but the real price of cremation services is $1,950, $220 more. This is because consumers must pay additional mandatory fees and charges that are not included in most providers’ listed prices. Consumers may incur additional surcharges in addition to these, which could raise the price paid for direct cremation services in Orange County even more. Opal is also releasing its research on the real price of direct cremation in Los Angeles in August 2025. 

Can I scatter ashes at sea in California?

Yes, as long as you follow EPA guidelines (3+ nautical miles offshore, file report within 30 days).

Learn More: Opal Resources

• The History of Death Culture and Celebrations of Life in the Black Community 
• Famous People Buried in California
• Scattering Ashes in California: Complete Guide
• What Is Direct Cremation?

Planning a meaningful farewell? Contact Opal Cremation for direct cremation services in California with compassionate care and transparent pricing.

Call us at 888-714-8481 or send us a message and we’ll get back to you immediately.

Send us a Message

Footnotes

¹National Funeral Directors Association, 2025 Cremation & Burial Report