Selecting a grave marker for a family member you have lost can be a tough and emotional decision. Tombstones provide the family and friends of the deceased a chance to feel connected with their lost loved ones. Choosing the right grave marker can honor your beloved and bring you peace each time you visit the site, so it’s important to consider all of the options. Below is a helpful guide to selecting a grave marker. 

A Guide to Selecting a Tombstone 

1. Select the Style 

Tombstones come in many different styles. An upright headstone is a traditional marker that is two pieces, while a footstone is a marker located at the foot of the grave. If there are several other family members in the same area, a slant or bevel marker could be the right choice, as it can distinguish an individual from the rest of the family’s markers.

For a smaller and more affordable tombstone, a lawn-level marker may be the right choice as it is flush with the ground. If you are looking to commemorate your loved one with a larger grave marker, a ledger stone covers the entire area of the grave spot and is flush with the ground. 

2. Select the Material 

Tombstones can be purchased in many different materials, and they all create beautiful monuments for a loved one. Bronze doesn't require much attention over time, but it can be costly. Granite, however, is an affordable option if you’re looking for durability and a sleek aesthetic. 

Marble is suitable if you're looking for a beautiful and smooth grave marker. However, it doesn’t wear as well over time, and the inscription can eventually become difficult to read. Stainless steel has become more prevalent in recent years because it combines durability with a classic look.

3. Choose the Inscription & Design 

Once you select the type and material for a tombstone, you can select a quote and design for the marker. Choosing a design gives you the freedom to express your loved one in a reverent and unique way. Typically, a headstone includes the person’s name, date of birth, and the date of death. After the basic information, you can include an epitaph, which is a statement written in memory of someone. An example of an epitaph would be “Loving father and husband.”

Many family members also choose to include a symbol on the grave to represent their loved one, such as a dove, a cross or Star of David, or an angel. 

If you’re looking to commemorate a loved one with a tombstone, consider McGee Monument Co., Inc, in Morrilton, AR. The team compassionately creates one-of-a-kind tombstones for any budget. The family-owned business has served the area since 1901 with reliable and efficient service. To learn more information about their markers, visit the website. Call (800) 750-0177 to speak with a representative.