What Information Goes on a Headstone? A Simple Checklist
A checklist of what to include on a headstone — names, dates, relationships, symbols, epitaph — plus optional details and what most families leave off.
Most headstones follow a simple pattern. Use this checklist to decide what to include.
Essentials
- Full name — as it was known; include a maiden name if wished
- Dates — birth and death, years only or full dates — see date formats
Common additions
| Item | Example |
|---|---|
| Opening line | In Loving Memory |
| Relationship | Beloved Wife, Mother and Grandmother |
| Symbol | Cross, rose, emblem — see symbols |
| Epitaph | Forever in our hearts — see epitaph ideas |
Optional details
- Nickname in quotes
- Military service — see military inscriptions
- Portrait or etched scene
- Second language — see multilingual inscriptions
- Family surname across the top on companion stones
What most families leave off
- Cause of death
- Long lists of every relative (use the back instead)
- Exact times of birth or death
Check before you approve
Spellings, dates and spacing — see the proof checklist and how many words fit.
Information to gather before designing
- Full legal name and any nickname.
- Exact birth and death dates.
- Maiden name, if wanted.
- Titles, ranks or designations.
- Faith symbols or emblems.
- Epitaph options.
Having this ready speeds up design. See maiden names.
Information future generations value
Genealogists often wish older stones had included:
- Full dates, not just years.
- Maiden names for married women.
- Place of birth, especially for immigrants.
- Parents' names on children's stones.
- Spouse's name if they're buried elsewhere.
You don't need everything on the front — the back of the stone or a QR memorial page can hold the extra history.
Key Takeaways
- Name and dates are essential.
- Opening line, relationship, symbol and epitaph are common.
- Check every detail against official records.
Next Step
Lay out your wording in the Design Studio.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be on a headstone?
At minimum, the full name and dates. Most also include an opening line, relationships, a symbol and an epitaph.
Should a maiden name go on a headstone?
It is optional. Many families include it, often in brackets or as a middle name.
Do you put the full date on a headstone?
Either full dates or years only are acceptable. Full dates help genealogists.
What information helps future genealogists?
Full dates, maiden names, birthplace, parents' names and spouse details.
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Related guides
Minimalist Headstone Design
Headstone Proof Approval Checklist
Should Middle Names Be on a Headstone?
Should You Include Cause of Death on a Headstone? Advice
Headstone Delivery Checklist
