Choosing the right burial options for a loved one is a deeply personal decision that requires thoughtful consideration. At Gethsemane Cemetery and Memorial Gardens, we understand the importance of honoring those who have passed in a manner that reflects their life and legacy. In this guide, we will explore the various cemetery burial options available, from caskets and coffins to grave markers and gravesite decorations, to help you make informed decisions during this difficult time.

All about Grave Markers and Cemeteries

Grave markers, also known as headstones or tombstones, are one of the most significant elements of a cemetery burial. They serve as a lasting tribute to the deceased and provide a place for family and friends to visit and remember their loved one. Grave markers come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each offering a unique way to memorialize a life well-lived.

Types of Grave Markers

Flat Markers: These lie flat on the ground and are often made of granite or bronze. They offer a simple yet elegant way to mark a grave.

Upright Headstones: These are the most traditional type of grave marker, standing upright and usually made from granite or marble. They can be personalized with inscriptions, images, and symbols.

Slant Markers: These are like upright headstones but have a slanted face, making them easier to read from a standing position.

Bench Memorials: A bench marker not only serves as a grave marker but also provides a place for visitors to sit and reflect. These are often found in larger cemetery plots.

Body Donation before Cemetery Burial

Body donation is a generous and selfless choice that can contribute to medical research and education. After the body has been used for these purposes, it is often returned to the family for burial. Gethsemane Cemetery and Memorial Gardens offer burial options for those who have donated their bodies, ensuring they receive a dignified and respectful final resting place.

Considerations for Donated Bodies

Grave Markers: Families may choose to mark the grave with a traditional headstone or plaque, honoring the donor’s contribution.

Cemetery Plots: Some cemeteries offer specific sections dedicated to those who have donated their bodies, providing a special area where their generosity is recognized.

Burial Markers and Cemeteries

Burial markers play a critical role in the cemetery landscape. They mark the location of a grave and convey a message of remembrance and respect. Choosing the right burial marker is an important decision that reflects the values and personality of the deceased.

Personalizing Burial Markers

Inscriptions: Inscriptions can include the name, dates, and a meaningful quote or message. Some families choose to add symbols that represent the deceased’s hobbies, beliefs, or affiliations.

Material Choices: Granite, marble, and bronze are popular materials for burial markers. Each material offers different aesthetic and durability benefits, so it’s important to consider the long-term maintenance of the marker.

Colors and Finishes: Markers can be customized with different colors and finishes to complement the surrounding landscape or match family preferences.

Caskets and Coffins for Cemeteries

The choice between a casket and a coffin is a personal one, often influenced by cultural, religious, or individual preferences. Understanding the differences between the two can help you make the best choice for your loved one’s burial.

Understanding Caskets and Coffins

Caskets: Caskets are rectangular and typically have four sides. They are often made of wood or metal and are designed to provide a dignified resting place for the deceased. Caskets often feature a hinged lid and may have elaborate interior linings.

Coffins: Coffins are tapered at the head and foot, with a wider section at the shoulders. They are usually made of wood and may have a simpler design compared to caskets. Coffins are less common in the United States but are still a meaningful option for burial.

Choosing the Right Option

Material: Wood and metal are the most common materials for caskets and coffins. Wood offers a warm, natural appearance, while metal provides durability and strength.

Design Preferences: Some families prefer the more traditional look of a coffin, while others opt for the modern appearance of a casket. Both options can be personalized to reflect the deceased’s preferences and values.

Decorating a Cemetery Gravesite

Decorating a gravesite is a meaningful way to honor a loved one and keep their memory alive. Decorations can range from flowers and wreaths to more permanent fixtures like statues and plaques. Gethsemane Cemetery and Memorial Gardens provide guidelines for gravesite decorations to ensure that all decorations are respectful and in keeping with the serene environment.

Common Gravesite Decorations

Fresh Flowers: Fresh flowers are a timeless way to pay tribute to a loved one. Many families visit the cemetery on special occasions to place bouquets or wreaths on the grave.

Seasonal Decorations: Seasonal decorations, such as holiday wreaths or themed ornaments, can be a comforting way to celebrate the changing seasons while remembering the deceased.

Permanent Fixtures: Some families choose to install permanent fixtures, such as statues, plaques, or benches, to create a lasting tribute that can be visited year-round.

Guidelines for Decorating

Respecting Cemetery Rules: Each cemetery has its own guidelines for decorations, including what types of items are allowed and when they can be placed. It’s important to follow these rules to ensure the cemetery remains a peaceful and respectful place for all visitors.

Maintaining the Gravesite: Regular visits to maintain the gravesite, including removing old flowers and cleaning the marker, help keep the resting place looking beautiful and cared for.

At Gethsemane Cemetery and Memorial Gardens, we are here to support you in making these important decisions. Our team provides compassionate care and guidance during this difficult time.