Types of Burial Markers

Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation • February 22, 2021

Read on to learn more about your options of burial markers as gravestones aren’t the only burial marker, whether for burial of a body or ashes after a cremation service.

cremation service in Fulton, IL

You will most likely need to choose some kind of burial or cremains marker, whether you’re preplanning for your own eventual passing or dealing with a loved one’s recent death and cremation service in Fulton, IL.


What is a burial marker? A burial marker, like the name denotes, is what marks a burial site. However, they mean usually mean much more than that as burial markers are also what will symbolize the deceased for the rest of time. Of course, you will always have the memories of a lost loved one, but their burial marker will be what you go to visit or show future generations, and what other people will see. 


As you consider which one you might choose for your lost loved one, just remember that there really is no wrong choice if you choose from the heart. Think about what your loved one would have wanted and what would best symbolize him or her, but don’t over-complicate it or get stressed. When most people think of burial markers they just think of gravestones. But there are actually lots of different kinds of burial markers, including: 


  • Mausoleums – Mausoleums are free-standing, above-ground structures that provide a secure, dry and clean place for bodies to be interred. They also come in many different shapes and sizes, with some being small for just one body and others being massive to house multiple generations of the same family. 
  • Flush and Flat Markers – Flush and flat grave markers are inserted into the ground above a gravesite. They are usually very simple and subtle to match their streamlined, in-ground design. But there are some kinds of more elaborate flush and flat markers, like those with vase attachments that allow the bereaved to leave flowers and other tokens on the grave. 
  • Upright Cemetery Monuments – More commonly referred to as gravestones, upright cemetery monuments are what you will most commonly see in cemeteries and graveyards around the world. These upright markers are easy to see, making it simple to find a certain marker in a full cemetery or field. You can easily customize a gravestone into almost any shape, size, color or material from classic stone headstones to white crosses, marble angels and more. You can also customize what the gravestone says, with most people choosing to put their loved one’s name, dates of birth and death, and a short message. 
  • Benches – Bench memorials are just what they sound like: benches that either mark a grave or are a memorial for a deceased person. Though they are more unconventional and can be expensive, they create peaceful spaces that allow the bereaved to sit and reflect on the life of their lost loved one. Some people choose to decorate their loved one’s memorial bench with quotes, etchings, and the name of the deceased. There are even some benches that house cremated remains. 


These are just a few of the many options for marking a final resting place. Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation offers a range of services, including Fulton, IL cremation services. We can help you choose the best grave marker for your loved one. 


Pink and coral tulips blooming near cremation services in Amboy, IL.
September 28, 2026
Cremation services Amboy, IL can include a private family goodbye before cremation. Consider a peaceful, personal farewell with guidance at (815) 626 1131.
Delicate pink blossoms on a slender branch near funeral homes in Amboy, IL.
September 21, 2026
Funeral Homes Amboy, IL help families plan meaningful graveside services with caring guidance. Discuss your family's needs at (815) 626 1131.
Pink magnolia blossoms on a branch near cremation services in Morrison, IL.
September 14, 2026
Cremation services in Morrison, IL can include a meaningful viewing before the service. For caring guidance, call (815) 626 1131.
Pink poppy against a clear blue sky near funeral homes in Morrison, IL.
September 7, 2026
Planning a welcoming visitation? Funeral homes Morrison, IL families can consider timing and guest needs. For caring guidance, call (815) 626 1131.
Memorial candle and stone beside river at sunset for cremation services in Fulton, IL.
August 24, 2026
Compassionate cremation services Fulton, IL with caring grief support. Call Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation at (815) 626-1131 today.
Peaceful memorial garden with pond and bench for funeral homes in Fulton, IL.
August 17, 2026
Plan ahead with funeral homes Fulton, IL guidance that brings peace of mind. Call Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation at (815) 626-1131 today.
Peaceful lakeside sunset with memorial bench for cremation services in Amboy, IL.
August 10, 2026
Thoughtful cremation services Amboy, IL with personalized care and guidance. Call Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation at (815) 626-1131 today.
Peaceful cemetery garden at sunset for funeral homes in Amboy, IL.
July 28, 2026
Honor every life with meaningful funeral homes Amboy, IL services. Speak with our caring team at (815) 626-1131 to plan a personal tribute.
Cremation memorial display with urn and keepsakes for cremation services in Morrison, IL.
July 27, 2026
Cremation services Morrison, IL offer personalized memorial options and compassionate guidance. Call (815) 626-1131 for caring support.
Funeral home memorial garden with bench overlooking a peaceful pond in Morrison, IL.
July 20, 2026
Funeral homes Morrison, IL provide compassionate support, meaningful services, and guidance. Call (815) 626-1131 for caring assistance.