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Design Guide 3 min read
How to Include a Maiden Name on a Headstone
Ways to show a maiden name on a headstone — as a middle name, in brackets, with née, or on the back — with examples and tips for genealogy.
Including a maiden name honours a woman's birth family and helps future genealogists.
Common formats
| Format | Example |
|---|---|
| As a middle name | MARGARET DOYLE MURPHY |
| In brackets | MARGARET (DOYLE) MURPHY |
| With née | MARGARET MURPHY, née DOYLE |
| Separate line | MARGARET MURPHY / née Doyle |
| On the back | "Daughter of Thomas and Ann Doyle" |
Née means "born" — it introduces the birth surname.
Tips
- Agree the format with family.
- Keep the married surname largest if it matches a companion stone.
- Check spelling against a birth record.
Key Takeaways
- Brackets, née or a middle name all work.
- Maiden names help genealogists.
- Keep companion stones consistent.
Next Step
Frequently Asked Questions
Should a maiden name go on a headstone?
It is optional, but many families include it to honour the birth family and help genealogists.
What does née mean on a headstone?
"Born" — it introduces the person's birth surname.
Where does the maiden name go?
As a middle name, in brackets, after née or on a separate line.
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