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Suggestions for what to write on a headstone

 

A headstone is a lasting tribute to your loved one that can be seen for generations to come, an inscription is usually made up of a top line, the person’s name, date of birth and death, and a few short words to pay tribute to them. But how do you choose what those short words will be?

What to write on a headstone

What you can write will depend on the type of headstone or memorial you choose, but most have room for a top line, their name, their dates of birth and death, and some short personal words. An example of this would be:

In memory of Joanne Smith 17th July 1930 – 14th October 2017 Much-loved mother and grandmother. Forever in our hearts.

Ideas for headstone top lines

The most popular top line for a headstone or memorial is ‘In memory of’ but here are a few more examples that could help you decide the right one for you. Some examples are:

  • In loving memory of

  • Dearly beloved

  • In remembrance of

  • Here lies

Ideas for headstone epitaph

After the top line, name and dates, the more personal words on a headstone or memorial are known as an epitaph. This is where you can add a tribute to your loved one by saying something about who they were or who loved them.

Here are some examples

  • Much loved wife to John and mother to James and Daniel

  • Loving husband and devoted father

  • Beloved daughter, forever young, forever beautiful

  • Always in our hearts

  • Forever loved, forever missed

  • Treasured by family and friends

Ideas for headstone bottom lines​​

  • Rest in peace

  • Reunited

  • Together again

  • Or maybe a quote from a song or poem

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