Honoring Loved Ones with Scripture: Choosing Bible Verses for Headstones

Losing a loved one is never easy, but it’s comforting to know that they have gone to be with the Lord. As we grieve, we want to remember and honor them in a meaningful way. One way to do this is by choosing a Bible verse to inscribe on their headstone – a verse that speaks to their faith and the hope of eternal life.

This same decision was faced by the family of George and Martha Washington as they designed a new family tomb in the early 1830s. Visitors to Mount Vernon have the opportunity to look into this tomb. And let me tell you that standing just a few feet away from the actual remains of our nation’s First Couple is something that’s quite impressive to any true history buff. And if you look very closely at the rear interior wall of that tomb, you’ll see the following Bible inscription:

In addition to John 11:25-26 (which the Washington family chose), here are eight (8) other Bible verses that would be appropriate for headstones for men and women of faith.

  • “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” (Psalm 116:15)
  • “The memory of the just is blessed” (Proverbs 10:7a)
  • “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)
  • “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)
  • “To be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8)
  • “His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” (Matthew 25:21)
  • “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10b)
  • “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

If you’ve seen other Bible verse inscriptions on headstones that you would like to share or if you have additional suggestions, please feel free to let us know in the comments.

Choosing a Bible verse for a loved one’s headstone is a meaningful way to honor their faith and provide comfort to those who visit the grave. Whether it’s a verse that speaks to the person’s character, a passage that was significant to them, or simply a verse that offers comfort and hope, the right verse or passage can create a lasting legacy for generations to come.

God bless you!