Choosing a Cemetery
Often, the choice of cemetery must be made quickly and in difficult circumstances. This can be a simple decision if based on family connections, location, or trusted advice. Sometimes, however, there is little opportunity to make a truly informed choice at the time resulting in doubts or even feelings of regret afterwards. If this is the case, there should be some consolation in knowing that it was the best or only decision then available, and that also, every cemetery is a very special place.
If there is no urgency to choose a cemetery, a little prior research might prove both interesting and satisfying. Since we at Lons are familiar with so many cemeteries, we thought it might be helpful to suggest somethings to consider or be aware of. However, sometimes a certain cemetery just seems right and there is nothing that could explain or change that.
Here are some other items that might be considered:
- types and sizes of monuments allowed; Most single plots can accommodate a monument not much wider than 3 feet. Cremation plots/sections often have very specific monument choices rules. Large cemeteries may have special monument rules for different sections.
- direction memorials face Facing over the grave is traditional, but not always the rule. Having the family name inscribed on back of memorial should be considered if the front is not readily visible.
- costs; of plots, and of grave opening and closing.
- additional charges; marking locations for monuments, installing markers or foundations (these charges are normally absorbed by Lons; other companies may bill extra for them)
- cremations or double-depth (multiple burials) allowed on a single plot?
- winter access?
- winter burials permitted or vault or other arrangements in place?
who is responsible for making the arrangements?
how much additional cost? - maintenance concerns: mowing/trimming frequency, leaf raking also condition/size of the care and maintenance fund
- plot plantings, flower containers, etc allowed? (glass containers are not usually allowed and not a good idea anyway)
- room for cemetery expansion? (this is an indicator of potential for funding for future care and maintenance)
- is water available for care of plants (if permitted)?
- ground stability; what is the general condition of graves and monuments?