Bloomfield, New Mexico

Let the Methodist New Year Begin! Anyone buried with the Cross and Flame on their headstone would understand what that means. Methodist churches don't hire their pastors; the Bishop assigns them. And, all Methodist ministers agree to move when the Bishop deems it necessary. When does the itinerant's new charge begin? July 1. Thousands of Methodist churches across the country are spending this week giving and receiving lots of howdy-dos. This couple would have been through the ritual many times during their lives. Bloomfield Cemetery. [2013]

Aurora, Colorado

Voices Silenced:  The microphone, the infectious smile, the dancing double notes: They seem to contradict the symbolism of the bench. Was this someone at rest or someone who kept the world moving? Probably the latter, and probably the earth slowed down just a little bit with his passing. St. Simeon Catholic Cemetery. [2013]

Rest in Paradise Baby Boy
Love Mom
Our Love Will Reign With You For Eternity
Love Dad

Rainelle, West Virginia

Miners to the End:   It was the mine that supported the family.  Everyone should know that, and for a while they will.  But, these 'decorations' are ephemeral.  It's the bronze marker that's permanent.  Two types of space are available for commemoration of the dead:  (1) space on the marker, and (2) space contiguous to the grave.  On another front:  it's Mom 3, Dad 1.  Wallace Memorial Cemetery.  [2010]

Another Coal Miner in Heaven

 

Glenwood, Arkansas

Etchographic Portraiture:  Etching has become an ever more popular way of painting portraits on granite slabs. This headstone puts the process into perspective: Her memory is etched into her survivors' hearts and her image is etched into her memorial. If you look at both sides of the marker, though, you will discover two different pictures from two different eras of her life. [2012]

You graced our lives
And touched our souls.
You danced through our
Days with love and laughter
Etching your memory
In our hearts forever.
We Cherish All You Gave Us.
Daddy and Momma