When we think about laying a loved one to rest, traditional cemetery burial often comes to mind first. Rooted in centuries of customs, spiritual beliefs, and personal values, this time-honored practice continues to be a meaningful choice for families across New Jersey.
Knowing traditional below-ground services have many options, we’re here to walk with you through the process—compassionately and clearly—so you can understand what they involve, and what thoughtful options are available today.
What Is a Traditional Burial?
A traditional burial involves placing the body of a loved one in a casket, which is then interred in the ground, typically in a cemetery plot. This is often accompanied by a graveside service and marked with a headstone or memorial marker. It’s a deeply rooted ritual across many faiths and cultures, symbolizing a return to the earth and offering a lasting place for family and friends to visit and remember.
Why Choose a Traditional Burial?
Many families choose traditional burial for the following reasons:
- Spiritual or Religious Significance: For many faiths, such as Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, burial is the preferred or required method of final disposition.
- Permanent Memorialization: A gravesite provides a lasting space for loved ones to gather, reflect, and pay tribute.
- Personalization: From headstones to landscaping, gravesites can be uniquely designed to reflect a person’s life, values, or personality.
- Family Legacy: Many cemeteries offer family plots, allowing generations to rest together in one location.
Types of Traditional Burial Options
Even within traditional burial, there are several options to fit personal preferences, family needs, and budget considerations:
1. In-Ground or Below-Ground Casket Burial: The most common form of traditional burial. A casket is placed into the earth, often inside a concrete burial vault or liner for added protection and stability.
- Single Burial Plot: Designed for one individual.
- Double-Depth Plot: Allows two caskets to be placed in the same plot, one above the other—often chosen by couples.
- Family Plot: A designated area for multiple members of the same family to be buried together, side by side.
Personalizing a Traditional Burial
A traditional burial can be tailored to reflect the unique story of the person being honored.
Personalization options include:
- Custom headstones or monuments with engravings, photos, or inscriptions
- Memorial benches, statues, or plaques
- Decorative grave markers or plantings
- Burial vault designs, which can range from basic to ornate
- Coordinated graveside ceremonies or religious rituals
Is Traditional Burial the Right Choice?
A traditional burial may be right for you or your loved one if you value:
- A permanent, physical memorial
- Honoring religious or cultural traditions
- The ability for family and friends to visit and connect in a peaceful cemetery setting
- A tangible legacy passed down through generations
Explore Traditional Burial Options Across New Jersey
We offer 12 beautiful cemeteries throughout the state to provide you with up-to-date, compassionate guidance on burial options. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful country cemetery, a historic urban site, or a natural green burial space, we’re here to help you make an informed and comforting decision. Let us walk this journey with you—respectfully, clearly, and with care. We offer cemetery tours so please contact us for personalized support in finding the right resting place for you or your loved one.