Choosing a grave monument is a crucial part of the process of honoring a departed loved one. There are many styles to choose from. To help navigate the process, use the guide below to select the best monument for your deceased family member.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Monument

Materials & Construction

Determine what the requirements of the cemetery are. Ask what kinds of materials, shapes, styles, and sizes are allowed. Then, choose the material you’d like to have. Granite, marble, and fieldstone are all popular, durable, and affordable types of stone that are readily available. Granite and fieldstone will withstand extreme weather better; inscriptions on marble are more susceptible to pollutants such as acid rain. Bronze is an elegant, long-lasting option but may be more expensive than stone. Choose the material that will best accommodate any decorative elements, such as photos or intricate carving, that you plan to incorporate.

Size

The size of the monument will be determined by cemetery regulations, the design you’d like to have, and budget. Flat grave markers are stone or a bronze plaque laid on stone and can contain basic information about the decedent — such as name, dates of life and death, and a short inscription. They are the more affordable option and lend a classic elegance to the monument.

Headstones can be much more elaborate, containing photos, carving, longer inscriptions, or other personal information. Headstone monuments come in slanted or upright styles and single or double sizes. A double headstone marks two side-by-side graves — usually for married couples.

Choosing a Memorable Design

Often, a loved one will have specified an inscription or design they would like in funeral pre-planning. If not, think about the personality of the decedent. Were they humorous, poetic, plain-spoken? These attributes will help guide you to the type of monument they would approve of. Some families like to include photos or carvings related to a passion of the loved one. Others choose to include lines of poetry, a song, or even a treasured recipe. At the very least, you will need to include their name as well as the dates of birth and death.

Choosing a monument is a part of the grieving and healing process. It commemorates a life and offers a place for loved ones to visit. McGee Monument Co., Inc, in Morrilton, AR, creates customized monuments according to the family’s wishes. They will work with you to design the best monument for your loved one. This local, family-owned business has been serving families in Russellville, Morrilton, or Conway since 1901. Call (800) 750-0177 for assistance, or visit the website to view examples of their work.