The inscription on a monument is its most personal element — the words that will represent your loved one for generations. Choosing the right inscription can feel like an enormous responsibility, but it does not have to be overwhelming. Here are ideas and guidance to help you craft a meaningful message.
Traditional inscriptions include the basic biographical information: full name, dates of birth and death, and a family designation such as Beloved Mother, Devoted Husband, or Cherished Grandmother. These straightforward inscriptions are timeless and dignified. Many families add a brief epitaph below the biographical information — a short phrase or verse that captures the essence of their loved one's spirit.
Religious and spiritual inscriptions are among the most common choices. Scripture verses like "The Lord is my shepherd" (Psalm 23:1), "I am the resurrection and the life" (John 11:25), and "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21) offer comfort and hope. Other faiths have equally meaningful texts: Buddhist teachings on peace and impermanence, Islamic verses about returning to God, and Jewish memorial prayers like the Kaddish. Your monument company can help with proper formatting and translation if needed.
Personal and poetic inscriptions allow you to honor what made your loved one unique. Quotes from favorite books, song lyrics that held special meaning, inside family phrases, or original words from the heart all make powerful inscriptions. Consider phrases like "Forever in our hearts," "Gone fishing," "She made the world more beautiful," or "His laughter echoes still." Military veterans often include their branch of service, rank, and service dates, along with emblems approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
When writing your inscription, remember that space is limited. Work with your monument company to ensure the text fits well on the stone at a readable size. Most families choose two to four lines of inscription beyond the name and dates. Use your monument company's design tools to see exactly how the text will look on the stone before finalizing — font size, spacing, and layout all affect readability and visual balance.