What to write on burial monuments

The inscription on a gravestone typically shares details about the deceased buried there. Information commonly found on gravestones and monuments Philadelphia include the deceased’s name, date of birth and death, their occupation and any accomplishments they achieved in their lifetime. Some gravestones also include additional inscriptions with short phrases.

Common phrases

What gets inscribed on a gravestone is a personal decision made by the family and can include a variety of different phrases. Some of the most common phrases include:

• “Rest in peace”
• “In memory of”
• “Cherished memories of”
• “In fondest memory”
• “With love we remember”
• “Eternally loved”
• “Forever in our hearts”
• “Loving mother/father”

Poems and Scriptures

In addition to including personal information about the deceased and a small phrase, some are adding poems and/or scriptures to their loved ones gravestone. Inscriptions can include a poem that was his or her favorite or a scripture that has sentimental meaning for the person and family. When selecting a poem or scripture it is important it has a personal meaning and that the deceased person would have selected it him or herself.

Song lyrics or quote

Just like when selecting a poem or scripture, it is possible to engrave song lyrics or a quote on the gravestone. It is common for the family to include their loved ones favorite song or quote on their gravestone.

Symbols

There are no rules that state that the only things that can be inscribed on a gravestone are words. In fact, many include a small graphic of some sort. When selecting what is to be engraved on the gravestone, think of a symbol that is meaningful. Many choose to have a dove, wreath, butterfly, angels, lilies or praying hands etched onto the gravestone.

Achievements

If a person did something amazing in his or her lifetime, it is a good idea to include it on their gravestone. Achievements worth noting include helping the homeless, being devoted to the care of the elderly and other shellfish acts.

When deciding what to have inscribed on a loved ones gravestone, it is important to consider what the person would have wanted. It is also important to select a phrase that means something to both the deceased and the entire family. This is something that will be engraved in stone and remembered for all eternity.