Many people are committed to honoring their loved ones’ memories. In the immediate aftermath of their passing, for example, it’s customary to compose a touching epitaph or inscription on the gravestone or monument. It’s a long-standing tradition that offers families a poignant way to remember the person well after the funeral service is over. Below, learn a bit more about this thoughtful remembrance.

Why Epitaphs Are Meaningful

The right words can mean so much after the loss of a loved one. That’s why so many choose to include a gravestone epitaph. It’s an easy way to convey the person’s importance, share the hobbies that they loved, and honor a life well-lived. Once the funeral service ends and everyone goes home, loved ones will continue to mourn and come to terms with their loss. An epitaph is a thoughtful verse that commemorates the person’s life in a meaningful way.

How to Write an Epitaph

There are no rights or wrongs when it comes to composing an epitaph. Some people may opt to inscribe religious passages in line with the person’s faith. Another option is to offer a succinct summary of the person’s greatest life achievements, or a quote that they particularly loved from a book, a poem, a song, or a film. A military member might be recognized for their decades of service, for example. A parent could be recognized for commitment to their children, or a doctor might be celebrated for his devotion to public service and healthcare. In general, epitaphs should be short, meaningful, and direct.

What You Should Consider

In the same way that you made very specific speech plans for the funeral service, you might have a similar type of dedication in mind for the epitaph. Since these words will remain for decades, be thoughtful with your phrasing. For example, you might want to mention something that is relevant to the entire family so that people generations down the line feel a strong sense of connection to their past. At the same time, don’t feel pressure to write the perfect sentiment. Ask other family members for help, think about what the person loved and believed, and let their memory be your guide.
 

Since 1900, families have trusted in the caring and compassionate staff at Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Inc. Funeral Home in Middletown, NY. They will help you every step of the way during your time of grief, from assisting with funeral service planning to selecting a casket or cremation urn. To find out more about how they can help you during this period, visit them online or call (845) 343-2142 to speak with the funeral director.