The Memorial Overlook and Memorial Garden provide burial space for those who choose cremation rather than whole-body burial. Both gardens are managed habitat restoration areas, carefully maintained by our staff and dedicated volunteers.
The Memorial Overlook is a wooded area in the northeast corner of the cemetery, contained within the curved path known as the Carriage Road. The Memorial Garden is located on the northwest side of the cemetery. Each area is accessible only by foot. The Memorial Overlook has a higher vantage point, with a large gathering area and bench for quiet contemplation. The Memorial Garden is a more intimate setting, with accessible seating. It is easier to get access to this area if mobility issues are a concern.
Both the Memorial Overlook and Memorial Garden are designated areas to bury ashes simply. Each of these areas receives ashes directly into the landscape. After payment of fees, cemetery staff prepare the burial site, place and bury the ashes with family and friends present. A memorial service can be held at the time the ashes are being placed.
Bronze memorial plaques, when chosen, are permanently attached to the steles in the immediate area of the Memorial Overlook or Memorial Garden. The stele in the Memorial Overlook area is reserved solely for those interred there. The stele in the area of the Memorial Garden is available for those interred there, as well as for loved ones interred elsewhere.
Plaques are ordered and installed by cemetery staff. The font and style of the plaques are standard. The sizes of plaques available are 6″ x 2″ and 6″ x 4″. Graphics, if chosen, must fit within the dimensions of the plaque without any change in the font size. Installation of plaques may be delayed for suitable weather.
Fresh flowers may be placed at the Overlook wall or by the steles. Any other items will be removed by cemetery staff.
Hope Abbey Mausoleum and traditional burial plots provide other cremation interment options.
By law, we place a portion of interment rights sales proceeds into an endowment to support perpetual care of the cemetery.