There are many different types of headstones available in Ireland, but at McKeon Memorials, our journey spans four generations, dedicated to crafting more than just headstones—they are timeless tributes etched in stone. Nestled in Kildare and reaching compassionately into the heart of Laois, our legacy is defined by unparalleled craftsmanship and a deep commitment to preserving the stories of your loved ones for generations to come.
Our headstones transcend mere monuments; they are meticulous creations, each expertly carved from natural stones like granite, limestone, and marble. Far from ordinary cemetery markers, we specialize in crafting headstones that are as unique as the lives they commemorate.
In this blog post, we invite you to join us on a journey exploring the artistry of headstone shapes, the significance of different types, and the unmatched craftsmanship that sets us apart as experienced stonemasons in Laois and Kildare.
Different Types of Headstones Available
Upright Headstones
Upright headstones, the epitome of timeless tradition, are a poignant expression of remembrance and tribute. Comprising two integral parts—the base and the die, also known as the tablet—these headstones encapsulate the essence of memorialization with a classical touch. At McKeon Memorials, our collection of upright headstones embraces this age-old design, infusing it with craftsmanship that transcends generations.
Serpentine Top
The serpentine top headstone design is a graceful choice, characterised by its gently curved and flowing contours. This elegant curvature adds a touch of sophistication to the memorial, creating a visual harmony that stands out in any cemetery landscape. Each serpentine top headstone at McKeon Memorials is a unique masterpiece, meticulously crafted to tell a story with an artistic finesse.
Considered one of the more classic and timeless choices, the serpentine top design allows for personalization while maintaining a sense of tradition. Its subtle yet distinctive shape serves as a poignant canvas for etching the memories and milestones of a cherished life.
Roof Top
The rooftop headstone design is a fusion of structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. With a sleek and symmetrical profile, this design provides a contemporary touch while preserving the solemnity of the memorial. At McKeon Memorials, we offer a variety of roof top headstones, allowing you to choose the design that best resonates with the spirit of your loved one.
These headstones are not just markers; they are expressions of individuality. The roof top design accommodates diverse customization options, from intricate engravings to personalised epitaphs, ensuring that the memorial reflects the unique personality and legacy of the departed.
Oval Top
Among the variety of top finishes available, the oval top headstones stand out for their soft and welcoming contours. This elegant design introduces a unique shape to the memorial, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and individuality.
Flat Top
For those who appreciate understated elegance, the flat top headstone design is a timeless choice. Clean lines and a sleek surface characterise this design, offering a minimalist yet impactful tribute. McKeon Memorials understands the power of simplicity, and our flat top headstones are crafted with precision to create a lasting impression.
The flat top design provides a versatile canvas for personalization, allowing families to choose the level of detail that best represents the life being honoured. Whether adorned with a poignant quote, religious symbols, or intricate artwork, each flat top headstone tells a unique story of love, loss, and remembrance.
Corner Rounds
For those seeking a more distinctive touch, the corner rounds provide an artistic finish to upright headstones. Seamlessly blending classic design with unique personalization, this choice adds a visually appealing element to the memorial.
Wing Headstones
Wing headstones, skillfully crafted at McKeon Memorials, offer a poignant blend of elegance and symbolism in memorialization. Characterised by the graceful shape of angel wings, these headstones go beyond tradition to convey a sense of spiritual guardianship and enduring presence. The intricate detailing of the wings serves as a canvas for personalization, allowing families to infuse the memorial with unique elements that capture the essence of their loved one’s life.
From understated and classic designs to more elaborate styles, wing headstones provide a versatile range to suit diverse preferences. At McKeon Memorials, each wing headstone is a timeless tribute, preserving legacies with universal symbolism and offering families a meaningful and lasting way to remember their departed loved ones.
Children Headstones
McKeon Memorials approach Children Headstones with utmost sensitivity and compassion. These headstones transcend the conventional, becoming poignant expressions of love and remembrance. Crafted with a deep understanding of the emotions involved, our designs capture the innocence, joy, and fleeting moments that define the lives of the little ones we hold dear. Each Children Headstone is more than a marker—it is a personalised tribute, allowing families to celebrate the uniqueness of their child with playful engravings, vibrant colours, and themed designs reflecting hobbies or interests.
From whimsical books that symbolise the endless possibilities of a life yet to unfold to comforting teddy bears embodying the warmth of childhood companionship, and heart-shaped memorials that express everlasting love, our Children Headstones come in a variety of shapes. Crafted from enduring natural stones, these memorials stand as lasting tributes, preserving the memories of young lives for generations.
If you are located in Laois or Kildare, McKeon Memorials offers a Complete Headstone Service
Choosing a memorial headstone for a loved one is a deeply personal and meaningful decision. At McKeon Memorials, we understand the significance of this choice, and our commitment to crafting enduring tributes goes beyond craftsmanship. Although there are different types of headstones available, it’s crucial to seek a design that resonates with the essence of your beloved. As experienced headstone makers Laois and Kildare, we bring a legacy of four generations to every memorial headstone we create.
When you are faced with the delicate task of selecting a headstone that beautifully encapsulates the essence of your loved one, trust only McKeon Memorials. Our craftsmanship extends beyond the stone—we are guardians of stories, architects of legacies. With meticulous attention to detail, personalised designs, and a profound understanding of the emotions involved, we stand as a beacon of solace during this poignant journey.