May 16, 2025

Choosing an Epitaph

An epitaph is a quote or saying inscribed onto a memorial as a way to honour the memory of the deceased.

Choosing an epitaph for a loved one that has passed can be difficult. It can take time to decide on a phrase that feels right and you also need to work with a limited space. At Robinson Memorials we often work with families who find it challenging to choose the right message for their loved one’s headstone. We’ve put this guide together to help you navigate choosing an epitaph.

How do you choose an epitaph?

As a starting point, often less is more. You don’t need a long passage to convey a lot of feeling. There is also limited space on memorials, and you’ll want to keep the letters large enough to be read easily. The smaller the carved text, the more likely it is to get chipped.

An epitaph is a chance to celebrate your love for someone, and people generally opt for positive phrases. Positive words can be uplifting and bring comfort to those visiting the grave.

Ask for ideas from friends and family

Ask friends and family for their most precious memories, or what they loved most about the deceased. E.g.

“He always lived life to the fullest”

“She had an infectious smile”

“The kindest person I knew”

“Always ready with a witty joke”

“He was a loving grandfather, father, and brother”

This may give you inspiration for an epitaph that will capture the essence of your loved one, and remind everyone visiting the grave of what they loved about them too.

Take inspiration from their interests

Were they an avid reader? Perhaps a quote from their favourite novel, or a saying from a favourite character would be fitting. Take a look at their favourite books, or search online for a quote from a particular novel.
Poetry can also offer some concise and beautiful quotes. If there is a special poem read at the funeral, a line from it may be suitable. Were they known for their humour? For example, on the memorial of Mel Blanc (the voice of Bugs Bunny) the iconic saying “That’s all folks” was chosen.

Poetry can also offer some concise and beautiful quotes. If there is a special poem read at the funeral, a line from it may be suitable.

Pay homage to their faith

It can be comforting to share spiritual or religious words with those grieving. A spiritual quote may help mourners to find some peace of mind when remembering the deceased.
Some examples of Bible quotes that are popular as epitaphs are:

“I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. – Psalm 23:6”

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. – Matthew 5:8”

You can search online for quote ideas from the Bible or alternative religious texts, depending on your loved one’s faith.

A private epitaph

Is there a special quote you want carved, yet want to be kept private? You can have something carved onto the part of the memorial that is buried. Some clients choose to do this to keep a quote between them and the deceased.

Get input in advance

Not everyone will want to think about their own epitaph, and many people would prefer their friends or family choose one over the discomfort of thinking about it themselves. However, if you are in a position where you are supporting someone in their death planning, it is worth asking them if they would like to choose their epitaph. This way you can rest assured that the memorial is what your loved one wanted and that they are being remembered in the way they envisioned.

Examples of epitaphs

Robinson Memorials has had the honour of carving some beautiful epitaphs for previous clients:

“With Love We Remember”

“Forever Loved, Rest in Peace”

“Cruising in the Arms of the Angels”

“I get tired of walking on this up-hill road
But I’m ready for talking to the ones I love
There will be no more hurting now I’ve settled my score
But I’ll see you again my friend on that celestial shore”

Choosing an epitaph to honour the memory of a loved one is challenging. At Robinson Memorials we want to help you so that you do not feel any additional stress, and that you are truly happy with your loved one’s memorial. Our team can provide suggestions and work with you to find the right words if you get stuck.

Get in touch with us and we’ll happily guide you through choosing an epitaph that will honour and celebrate the life of your deceased.