Most everyone would choose to personalize
a monument to some degree. In practice, though, many monuments tell us very little beyond
a name, date of birth, marriage, and death. In my opinion, this is a shame.
Symbols on monuments, a topic for another article, tell us about the deceased. But symbols
alone only give a general picture. However, used together, symbols, a porcelain photo, and
wording create a wonderful synergy. Porcelain photos is also a topic for another article.
But let us discuss effective wording for a moment. You may be surprised by how the
addition of a few extra lines speaks volumes about your loved ones.
Please consider this format, similar to what I have used for my own family:
(Father’s name), (profession), and (Mother’s name), (profession), were the
parents of (number) children: (first child’s name), (profession); (second
child’s name), (profession); . . . .
(Father’s name) was a talented (hobby). (Mother’s name) was a talented (hobby).
Both were dedicated to (children, church, organizations).
We love you Mom and Dad.
Now, doesn’t this tell us much more? From these few lines, we know about their
children, professions, talents, and affiliations. This is a special, personal tribute.
Expanded inscriptions also aid future generations with genealogy.
Inscriptions cost very little, and monuments usually have room for additional wording. For
example, backsides of monuments are often left blank or only have a surname. Also, the
addition of a memorial bench provides an ideal space for expanded inscriptions.
My best advice is to make a preneed purchase; don’t leave your legacy to guesswork.
You’ll be able to write your epitaph and design your monument just as you’d
like. We even employ an editor to assist with epitaphs, if requested.
