The choice of words to be inscribed is one of the most important parts of a gravestone. It’s the message that will represent the life of your loved one and should be short, timeless and dignified. The inscriptions are almost always carved directly into the gravestone. Inscriptions can also be created on ceramic or zinc plaques and attached to the gravestone. Gravestone inscriptions mostly include the individual’s name, date of birth and date of death.

We can offer additional inscriptions for existing headstones.

Epitaph

An epitaph is a phrase or statement that’s written in memory of the deceased. It can contain anything from bible passages to quotes, and should summarize the dead person’s life, beliefs and accomplishments. The most common example of an epitaph is the phrase “rest in peace.”

Choosing the right epitaph can be very difficult since it’s hard to summarise somebody in just a few words. If you’d like to make up your own epitaph, think about what the individual accomplished during their life and write a short poem about it. If you can’t think of anything, take inspiration from the deceased’s favourite poem, song or bible passage. Make it as personal and meaningful to them as possible. We are happy to advise during a meeting with you. The following may give you some guidance.

Common Phrases

These common phrases are short and can work very well either on their own or in conjunction with other more personal epitaphs:

  • In loving memory of…
  • Forever in our thoughts
  • Always remembered
  • Cherished memories
  • Remembered with love
  • Loved and missed by all the family
  • Together again

Inscriptions can be tailor made to reflect the person that has passed.

Poetry

Writing a poem about your loved one allows you to express your sorrow in a creative and dignified manner such as

  • “Softly the leaves of memory fall, Gently I gather and treasure them all, Unseen, unheard you are always near, So missed so loved so very dear”
  • “You are always in my thoughts, Your love is still my guide, And though I cannot touch your hand, I know you are by my side”
  • “Our Happiness Together Are Memories Forever”

Bible Passages

If you would like to choose a bible passage, study the verse to ensure it has relevance to your loved one’s life and faith. Examples include:

  • I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. – Psalm 23:6
  • Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. – Matthew 5:8
  • Whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. – John 5:24
  • The Lord is near to all who call on him. – Psalm 145:18
  • He…has passed from death to life. – John 5:24

We are happy to give you further ideas and guidance on this and to produce “draft layouts” so that you can visualise your choice before it is inscribed.