Scarborough & Hargett Celebration of Life Center, Inc.

Scarborough & Hargett Celebration of Life Center traces its origins to 1871, when Joseph Crooms Hargett founded a general store and undertaking business in Kinston, North Carolina. The partnership formalized in 1888 when Hargett joined with his son-in-law, John Clarence Scarborough, Sr., creating Scarborough and Hargett Undertakers. The firm relocated to Durham in 1900 and has operated continuously for more than 120 years, with its long-standing motto: "A Dignified Service in a Sympathetic Way."

The funeral home occupies a significant place in Durham's history as a pillar of the African American community. Four generations of family leadership have guided the business: J.C. Scarborough, Sr.; J.C. Scarborough, Jr.; Mrs. Ernestine Hargett Scarborough-Bynum; and since 1972, John C. "Skeepie" Scarborough III as President and CEO. His wife, Queen M.B. Scarborough, serves as Vice President and COO, bringing a background in education and public administration to the family operation.