Burial Plots and Cemetery Options in Amarillo: Guide to choosing a final resting place.

Choosing a burial plot and final resting place is one of the most significant decisions in planning a funeral. In Amarillo, Texas, families have several options when it comes to selecting a cemetery and burial plot, each with its own unique features and considerations. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider, the types of burial plots available, and the cemetery options in Amarillo, helping you make an informed and respectful decision.

Understanding Burial Plots

A burial plot is a designated space within a cemetery where a person’s remains are interred. These plots vary in size, location, and type, and they are often chosen based on personal preference, religious beliefs, and family traditions. The main types of burial plots include:

1. Single Plots: A single plot is designed for the burial of one person. It is the most common type of burial plot and is often chosen by individuals or families who prefer separate gravesites for each member.
2. Companion Plots: Companion plots are two burial spaces located side by side, typically chosen by couples who wish to be buried next to each other. Some cemeteries also offer the option of double-depth plots, where one grave is dug deeper to accommodate two coffins, one on top of the other.
3. Family Plots: Family plots consist of multiple burial spaces grouped together, allowing several family members to be buried in the same area. This option is often chosen by families who wish to maintain proximity even in death, creating a dedicated family resting place.
4. Cremation Plots: For those who choose cremation, cremation plots are smaller spaces designed to hold urns. These plots can be found in designated cremation gardens within cemeteries, providing a peaceful and respectful environment for loved ones to visit.

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Types of Cemeteries in Amarillo

Amarillo offers a variety of cemeteries, each catering to different needs, preferences, and religious or cultural practices. Understanding the types of cemeteries available can help you narrow down your choices:

1. Public Cemeteries: Public cemeteries are open to the general public and often managed by local governments or private entities. They provide a range of burial options, from traditional in-ground burial plots to cremation niches. These cemeteries are accessible and offer various services to accommodate diverse preferences.
2. Private Cemeteries: Private cemeteries are typically owned by private organizations or religious institutions. Access to these cemeteries may be restricted to members of a particular faith or community. Private cemeteries often provide a more intimate and exclusive setting for burial, with specific sections dedicated to families or religious groups.
3. Veterans Cemeteries: Veterans cemeteries are reserved for military personnel and their families. These cemeteries honour those who have served in the armed forces and often provide burial benefits, including free burial plots and markers. In Amarillo, the Llano Cemetery includes a dedicated section for veterans.
4. Green Cemeteries: Green cemeteries, also known as natural burial grounds, focus on environmentally friendly burial practices. These cemeteries often prohibit the use of embalming fluids, metal caskets, and non-biodegradable materials, allowing the body to return to the earth naturally. Green cemeteries in Amarillo offer a serene and natural setting for those who wish to minimize their environmental impact.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Burial Plot

Selecting the right burial plot involves several important considerations. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

1. Location and Accessibility: The location of the cemetery and the specific plot within it is crucial. Consider the proximity to your home or the homes of loved ones, as well as the ease of access for visitors. A convenient location will ensure that family members can visit the grave site regularly.
2. Cemetery Rules and Regulations: Each cemetery has its own set of rules and regulations regarding burial practices, grave markers, and maintenance. It’s important to review these guidelines to ensure they align with your preferences. Some cemeteries may have restrictions on the type of headstone or grave decorations allowed.
3. Religious and Cultural Practices: If you have specific religious or cultural requirements, ensure that the cemetery accommodates these practices. This may include certain burial rites, orientation of the grave, or the use of particular burial materials. Private cemeteries often cater to specific religious or cultural groups.
4. Cost: The cost of burial plots can vary significantly based on factors such as location, plot type, and cemetery prestige. Be sure to inquire about all associated costs, including the price of the plot, opening and closing fees, and ongoing maintenance fees. Some cemeteries offer payment plans to make the expense more manageable.
5. Future Availability: If you are considering a family plot, check the cemetery’s availability for future burials. Some families prefer to purchase multiple plots at once to ensure that future generations can be buried together. It’s also important to inquire about the cemetery’s long-term maintenance and care plans.

Cemetery Options in Amarillo

Amarillo is home to several well-maintained cemeteries, each offering a range of burial options. Here are a few notable cemeteries in the area:

1. Llano Cemetery: Established in 1891, Llano Cemetery is one of Amarillo’s oldest and most respected cemeteries. It offers a variety of burial plots, including single, companion, and family plots, as well as cremation options. Llano Cemetery is known for its serene atmosphere and beautifully landscaped grounds. The cemetery also includes a dedicated veterans’ section, honouring those who have served in the military.
2. Memory Gardens Cemetery: Located on South Washington Street, Memory Gardens Cemetery provides a peaceful setting for families to lay their loved ones to rest. The cemetery offers traditional burial plots, cremation niches, and private family estates. Memory Gardens is also known for its well-maintained gardens and tranquil surroundings, making it a comforting place for reflection and remembrance.
3. Amarillo’s Green Lawn Cemetery: For those interested in environmentally conscious burial options, Amarillo’s Green Lawn Cemetery offers green burial plots in a natural, wooded setting. This cemetery is dedicated to preserving the environment by using biodegradable materials and minimizing the ecological footprint of burials. It’s an ideal choice for individuals who prioritize sustainability.
4. Amarillo City Cemetery: Serving the community for over a century, Amarillo City Cemetery is another option for those seeking a final resting place. The cemetery offers various burial options, including traditional in-ground plots and cremation niches. Its central location and historical significance make it a popular choice for many families in the area.

Conclusion

Choosing a burial plot and cemetery in Amarillo is a deeply personal decision that requires careful consideration of various factors, including location, cost, religious and cultural practices, and environmental impact. By understanding the different types of burial plots and cemeteries available, you can make an informed decision that honours your loved one’s wishes and provides a peaceful final resting place.

Whether you choose a traditional cemetery like Llano Cemetery or an environmentally friendly option like Green Lawn Cemetery, Amarillo offers a variety of choices to suit your family’s needs. Taking the time to explore your options and consider your family’s preferences will ensure that you select the perfect resting place for your loved one.

References

• “Cemetery and Burial Plots,” National Funeral Directors Association. Available at: https://nfda.org
• “Texas Cemeteries,” Texas Historical Commission. Available at: https://www.thc.texas.gov
• “Understanding Burial Options,” Funeral Consumers Alliance. Available at: https://funerals.org
• Llano Cemetery Association. Available at: https://www.llanocemetery.org