Headstones in Richmond & Central Virginia: Hollywood Cemetery and Beyond

Richmond's Hollywood Cemetery, on the hills above the James River, is one of the South's best-known historic cemeteries. The city's historic African American cemeteries — such as Evergreen and East End — have been the focus of major volunteer restoration. Veterans may be buried at Richmond National Cemetery.

Historic and restored cemeteries

When adding a stone in a historic or restored cemetery, ask about rules and approvals, and consider a design in keeping with nearby stones. Families tracing ancestors can see headstone ideas for a genealogist.

Heat, sun and storms

Strong sun, heat and humidity favour polished granite, which holds its colour and resists staining; painted details may need touching up over time. In storm country, make sure the monument is properly pinned or set to the cemetery's specification. See granite for hot, sunny climates.

Cemetery rules

In the United States, cemeteries are regulated state by state, and every cemetery — municipal, religious, nonprofit or private — sets its own rules on memorial sizes, materials, foundations and installation. Before you order:

• Ask the cemetery for its rules and fee schedule in writing (foundation, setting and any permit fees).
• Confirm who installs — cemetery staff or an approved monument company.
• Submit the design for approval before production.

Our cemetery headstone rules guide has a full checklist, and headstone setting fees explained covers the extra costs.

Veterans

Eligible veterans can receive a government headstone, marker or medallion, and families can also choose a private granite monument that includes service details. See veteran headstones and VA rules, the VA medallion and military inscriptions.

Factory-direct to Richmond

Marwaa Memorials manufactures in our own factory and delivers door-to-door across the USA under DAP terms, with freight, customs and duties included in the quote. Plan the design in our Design Studio, request a quote, or call our US team via the contact page. Read how DAP delivery works.

Local pages: our Virginia headstone guide. See also our Hampton Roads and Washington, D.C. guides.