Family Memorials
What is a family Memorial?
Gaydos Monument Company has been crafting family memorials to stand the test of time for three generations. A family memorial is a monument usually made of granite and it is also often called a cemetery memorial, headstone, grave marker, or tombstone. A family memorial is typically placed in a cemetery at the head of the grave (which is where the term headstone comes from) to commemorate a family member or loved one.
Why Granite?
Family memorials are typically made from granite -- it is an ideal substance for monumental works because of its beauty and durability. Granite is a very hard igneous rock mined from deep in the earth – it is actually the second hardest natural substance known next to diamonds. Granite comes in many different colors and grains, and is excellent for showcasing engravings and/or etchings.
How do I purchase a Cemetery Memorial?The very first thing you should do is call or email Gaydos Monument Company. We will contact
your cemetery directly to determine what restrictions, if any, they place on the type or size
of memorial you may have, and the footer cost. [The footer is a concrete structure in the
ground. Your memorial will be attached to it. It is typically poured by the cemetery to match
the size of your memorial. The footer will limit movement of the monument.] Next we will help
you select a color, shape, size, finish and design that is to your liking and within your budget.
Please note that there are several common styles of granite memorials: dies and bases, slants
(with and without bases), bevel markers, and flat markers – more comprehensive information about
each style can be obtained through their respective links to the right. Gaydos will handle all
aspects of your memorial order: providing the granite, handling all of the design and engraving,
etchings, etc., arranging the footer, and setting it in the cemetery. We welcome you to view
the links to the right which will provide you with more images and information about the memorial
styles, colors, designs, options and more. You may also visit our showroom in Canonsburg, PA
where we have over 200 memorials on display.
