I had always been close to my grandfather. Growing up, I spent countless hours at his house, playing cards and listening to stories about his life. When he passed away after battling cancer, I was devastated and struggled to come to terms with the fact that I would never hear his voice or see him smile again.
The day of his funeral was a blur of tears. I felt like my heart was being ripped out of my chest, and I didn’t know how I was going to go on without my grandpa in my life.
Months went by, and I found myself struggling to cope with my grief. I couldn’t bear the thought of never seeing my grandpa again, and I didn’t know how to move forward. One day, on a whim, I decided to visit his grave. I had never been to the cemetery to visit someone before, and the thought of seeing his name on a headstone made my stomach churn. But I knew that I needed to do something to feel closer to him.
As I walked through the rows of graves, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. There was something serene about the quiet, stillness of the cemetery. When I finally reached his plot, I was overcome with emotion. Seeing his name etched in stone made it all feel so real. He was really gone.
I sat down in the grass in front of his grave and closed my eyes. I thought about all the memories we had shared together, and I realized that even though he was gone, his spirit lived on. I vowed to keep his memory alive, to carry on the traditions he taught me, and to make him proud.
As the sun set, I looked down at his headstone and whispered, “I love you, Grandpa.” With a heavy heart, I turned and walked away, knowing I would return to visit him again.
I knew that even though I had said goodbye to my grandfather, he would always be with me, guiding and watching over me. And I will always have the cemetery memorial to visit and remind me of the love and connection I shared with him.

Cemetery memorials are an important way to honor the lives of our loved ones who have passed away. They serve as a lasting tribute to the deceased and provide a space for remembrance and reflection. Cemetery memorials come in various styles of flat/flush markers and upright monuments, and they play an essential role in helping us to grieve, heal, and remember.
The Catholic Cemeteries Association believes everyone deserves a beautiful and lasting tribute, and we’re here to help you create one. Whether you’re looking for a simple flat marker or a more elaborate monument, our Family Service Representatives can help you select the right option to honor your loved one’s memory. We understand that every family’s needs are unique, and that’s why we offer a personalized approach to every memorial and marker we create. Our skilled craftsmen will work to design a custom memorial that reflects your loved one’s personality and spirit.
For more information about our Memorial Program, click here.
Even though he passed many years ago, I still find myself visiting my grandfather’s final resting place. I bring flowers, sit, and talk to him about my life and ask for his guidance. I feel like I am still connected to him, even though he is no longer with me. His monument offers my family a physical space where we can visit and reflect on his life. I will always cherish this lasting tribute to my grandfather, as it has allowed him to be forever remembered.
Written By: Paige Muttillo | Marketing Manager | Catholic Cemeteries Association