Headstone inscriptions for dad
Heartfelt epitaph inscriptions for fathers
A simple explanation of a Headstone, Tombstone, Gravestone
The terms ‘headstone’, ‘tombstone’ and ‘gravestone’ are often used interchangeably, but what exactly do they mean? They all refer to the marker (frequently made of stone) which is placed over, or at the head of, a grave. It usually sits atop a stone base and has details about the deceased inscribed on it.
What to write on your loved one's headstone is often no easy task and can be very emotional. If your loved one did not request a specific epitaph inscription it is recommended you take some time before you write your inscription as you may regret the wording you choose if you don't allow time to clear your head and consider the most appropriate wording.
What is an epitaph?
An epitaph is a short statement which farewells the deceased and helps those visiting the grave to remember them.
Typically the goal is to leave some words of wisdom. These words represent the bond between the living and the dead. Finding the right few words to express their whole life can seem almost impossible as traditionally headstones only allow a small amount of space for text. In reality, however, using a short headstone inscription can simplify the process, using a few well-chosen words.
Due to their beautiful simplicity, some of the more classic headstone quotes have been used for centuries. Today many modern headstones, tombstones, or memorials use quotes from poems, books or literary greats. Music lyrics are also a great way to help express what you may find difficult at this time. Remember the words you choose will be timeless.
Who writes an epitaph?
Epitaphs are often written as if the surviving spouse, parent, or child wrote the lines for the deceased individual. They may also be written as if the deceased is speaking. Finally, they could be written in the third person as a message to the people reading the inscription.
Usually, as well as the epitaph the headstone inscription may include the below information, this is based on the classic three or four-line format.
- 3 line: Top Line. Name. Dates.
- 4 line: Top Line. Name. Dates. Epitaph.
- 3 line with the epitaph: Name. Dates. Epitaph. The top line is often something like “In Loving Memory” or “At Rest”.
Classic headstone inscription for dads
- In loving Memory of our Father
- In our Hearts forever- our Loving Father
- Always near to us - our loving Dad
- In memory of a very special man - our father
- The greatest gift in life is the love of a father
- He was beloved in life...
- He had kind words for everyone...
- To those who loved him, his memory never grows old...
- A loving father and husband...
- The world is a better place because he was here...
- The world's loss was Heaven's gain.
- His true wealth was in his kind heart.
- Your memory will live on in our hearts.
- With a song in our hearts We remember…
- Precious memories of…
- With love, we remember
- Cherished memories of...
- He shall receive in the world to come, eternal life.
- May the journey on your next adventure be as joy-filled as your time with us.
Father epitaph memorial inscription examples from authors and poets
- Death is the golden key that opens the place of Eternity - Milton
- Heaven, the treasury of everlasting joy - Shakespeare
- The heart of him who truly loves is a paradise on earth - Lamennais
- Til the master of all good workmen shall set us to work anew - Rudyard Kipling
- Earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal - Moore
- There hath pass'd away a glory from the earth - Wordsworth
- For all we know this might only be a dream, we come and go like ripples in a stream. Nat King Cole
Bible headstone quotes
- Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil - Psalm 23:4
- Whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life - John 3:16
- Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God - Matthew 5:8
- The righteous shall go into life eternal - Matthew 25:46
- The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want - Psalm 23:1
- Sleep on now, and take your rest - Matthew 26:45
- They can no longer die; for they are like the angels - Luke 20:36
- I will fear no evil for thou art with me - Psalm 23
- I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever - Psalm 23:6
- Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest - Matthew 11:28