Urn Inscription Formats and Ideas

Immediately after a loved one passes away is not always the easiest time to consider how to commemorate and honor them. These urn inscription formats and ideas can help you plan for the future and decide how to memorialize your loved one on their urn.

Standard inscription formats

Sometimes the simplest inscriptions are the most elegant and the most appropriate. One standard format is on three lines: "In Loving Memory/ Your loved one's name/ Date of birth - date of death." The phrase "in loving memory" can be replaced by lines like "In Memoriam," "In Fond Remembrance," "In Treasured Memory Of" or other similar sentiments.

Add a personal touch

After the standard inscription, some people like to include an extra line that captures something unique about the deceased. Brevity and clarity are important here. Typical examples include phrases like "Devoted Husband," "Our Beloved Child," "Brave and True" or "Semper Fi." Reflect on your loved one's identity as you decide on a more personalized inscription.

A faithful message

If your loved one is a person of faith, you may wish to add a quote from the Scripture of their religious tradition. For the Christian faith, "Love never fails" or "I am the Resurrection and the Life" has an appropriate tone. This message can bring a memorial to their beliefs - even after they are gone. If they are not of faith, a verse of poetry or favorite quotation could work as a substitute.

Remembering your loved one with a well-planned urn inscription is part of saying goodbye. With the above suggestions and your knowledge of their life and experience, choosing the right message is easy to determine.