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Headstone Epitaphs: Choosing Verses, Quotes, Words, Phrases, Sayings & Inscriptions

Epitaph Categories

General Epitaphs
Words of Comfort Epitaphs
Classic Epitaphs
Bible Verse Epitaphs
Epitaphs for Infants & Children
Epitaphs for Females - Mother, Daughter, Sister, etc.
Epitaphs for Males - Father, Son, Brother, etc.

Are you at a loss for what to write on a headstone? This article not only will discuss the significance of tombstone epitaphs, but also offers many examples from which to choose.

The Significance of an Epitaph

When a loved one has been laid to rest in a cemetery the final stage of closure involves the placement of a tombstone or grave marker identifying their grave. It is here that we are given one final occasion to communicate to the world the significance of our loved one.

Tombstone epitaphs are a reflection of one's existence highlighting their personality traits or accomplishments in life. In some cases they may also tell the story of the circumstances that brought them to their death.

Even though tombstone epitaphs have varied over time one thing remains a constant. That is that epitaphs are a meaningful way to give respect to the deceased.

Writing An Epitaph

Tombstone epitaphs take on many forms and are derived from many sources. One of the most popular forms are taken from biblical scripture. Bereaved family members often choose a biblical verse as an epitaph as it may exhibit some virtuous quality that was a characteristic of the decedent's life.

Some choose to write an tombstone epitaph detailing the accomplishments of the decedent's life. Maybe the person was a great doctor who selflessly gave his time tending to the sick, or one who was known for their philanthropy or community service.

Whatever the subject a epitaph allows us to post our reflections of the personalities and achievements of the departed, marking their existence here on Earth.

Examples of Tombstone Epitaphs

To help give you some inspiration in composing an epitaph for your loved one, we have assembled a collection of epitaphs. You can either copy them directly or use them as a basis to create your own. Here are the categories for epitaphs. Click on the linked title to view them.

General Epitaphs
These epitaphs are general in nature and taken from a variety of sources. If you need help in choosing or creating an epitaph these will serve as a good starting point.

Words of Comfort Epitaphs
Statements that assure our grieving hearts that we are never really apart from our loved one.

Classic Epitaphs
Favored statements and saying that remind us of the true wisdom of life.

Bible Verse Epitaphs
Promises from our Father above that emphasize the peace we seek in our lives.

Epitaphs for Infants & Children
Statements that announce our most precious and devoted love with the longing of hope and peace.

Epitaphs for Females - Mother, Daughter, Sister, etc.
Endearing words that comfort and inspire the reader who remember the devoted woman in his/her life.

Epitaphs for Males - Father, Son, Brother, etc.
Unique words to individualize the character, devotion, generosity and success of a man's life.