Usually, those purchasing headstones are doing so for the first time, and as most will be experiencing strong emotions, they might have difficulty choosing the ideal grave marker to remember their loved one by. At McGee Monuments in Rochester, NY, their team has been helping grieving family members choose headstones that meet their personal needs for over a century, and they know having the right information beforehand is enormously helpful.

If you are currently faced with choosing a headstone for a loved one who has passed away, here is an explanation of the different types you will most likely be selecting from:

• Upright Headstones: The most traditional type of headstone you will find in any memorial park or cemetery is the upright or vertical headstone. These stones typically consist of two parts, the base and the “tablet” top, and tend to weigh at least 450 pounds.
• Flush or Lawn-Level Headstones: These are usually the most inexpensive grave markers available. Generally, these granite or bronze markers only rise a few inches off the ground, giving them their name of “lawn level,” but they can also be set on or into a base.
• Ledger Grave Markers: While these headstones are also flush with the ground, they cover the entire grave instead of only marking its head. Sometimes, they are also combined with other memorial monuments, such as an upright headstone, or have added vases where families can place flowers.
• Obelisks: These monuments originated in Ancient Egypt and are tall, four-sided square pedestals that tend to be pointed at the top. Families who want a more decorative approach might prefer this type of marker for their loved one, or they might like to combine it with one of the other designs.

If you are trying to decide on the perfect headstone to memorialize your loved one, do not hesitate to speak to a McGee Monuments staff member. Discuss your options with them today by calling (585) 546-4602. You can also visit their website for more information about their services.