What to Include on a Headstone: Name, Dates, and Beyond
Choosing what to place on a headstone is a deeply personal decision. At its heart, it is about honoring a life in a way that feels honest, respectful, and lasting.
While most headstones include a name and dates, many families choose to include more — a message, a symbol, or a detail that tells a story. At McCall Monument, we guide families through each of these choices with care and clarity.
Full Name
Most headstones list the full legal name, but there are options:
• First, middle, and last name
• Nicknames in quotation marks (for example, William “Bill” Thompson)
• Maiden names, included or placed in parentheses
• Titles such as Dr. or Rev. if they were part of the person’s life identity
Some families also choose to include a relationship line underneath, such as Beloved Husband and Father or Daughter and Sister.
Birth and Death Dates
This is the most expected detail. You can choose:
• Full dates (April 12, 1945 – July 6, 2021)
• Years only (1945 – 2021)
• Spaced or centered layouts
Some couples choose to pre-engrave one side with a birth date and leave space for the final date later.
Inscriptions or Epitaphs
A short message adds emotion and meaning. Popular choices include:
• “Forever in our hearts”
• “Gone but not forgotten”
• “In God’s care”
• “Loving memories last forever”
• Scripture verses or song lyrics
Epitaphs can be deeply personal. We often help families craft wording that reflects a loved one’s values, faith, or legacy.
Symbols and Emblems
Symbols can say what words cannot. Some families choose:
• Religious symbols (cross, Star of David, angel)
• Military emblems or flags
• Wedding bands for shared monuments
• Farming, fishing, music, or hobby symbols
• Hearts, doves, or butterflies
If there is a symbol that mattered in their life, we can likely include it.
Photos and Portraits
Including a photo can add warmth and personality. We offer:
• Ceramic portrait plaques
• Laser etched photos (best on dark granite)
• Emblems or custom artwork based on real images
Photos work especially well on upright monuments and companion stones.
Custom Artwork or Scene
We can engrave nearly any design — farm fields, crosses, trees, mountains, military gear, musical instruments, and more.
These designs are often placed:
• Along the top border
• As a background image
• On one side of a companion monument
• On the back of a double-sided stone
Adding artwork makes the memorial feel truly personal.
Cemetery Rules and Layout Limits
Each cemetery has rules about what is allowed. These may include limits on:
• Size and shape
• Number of lines
• Type of artwork
• Use of color or photos
Because we work with cemeteries across Central Iowa, we can confirm what is allowed before any design is finalized.
How McCall Monument Helps
We work with you step by step. Our designers create a full proof of the layout so you can see the name, dates, symbols, and inscription before anything is carved.
We offer gentle guidance and experienced feedback to help you make decisions you will feel confident about for years to come.
Contact McCall Monument to schedule a consultation at one of our locations to begin the design process.
Have Questions or Ready to Begin?
We're here to help you honor your loved one with care and dignity. Reach out to our compassionate team for guidance or to schedule a consultation.
Contact McCall Monument