In the past decade, a growing practice in Israel has been the design and installation of a headstone while the client is still alive. In many cases—both couples and individuals—people purchase burial plots in advance and approach our company to create a headstone during their lifetime. This step is often taken to spare children and loved ones future stress and expense, and sometimes simply out of a wish to see the memorial that will stand at the grave.
Clients may choose a standard, economical headstone, a premium headstone, or an exclusive, bespoke memorial, based on personal preference. Headstones installed in advance typically require several special preparation steps:
-
Purchasing a burial plot
-
Preparing and completing the internal finishing of the grave
-
Creating a specialized headstone structure that allows the top slab to be removed easily when burial takes place
At Gabro Sela, you can receive detailed guidance regarding both the purchase of a plot and the process of installing a headstone while the client is still alive.
It is also important to understand that the headstone manufacturer is not responsible for the future removal of the slab or for engraving at the time of passing. Removal and engraving are not included in the original headstone price. Ultimately, all events are in the hands of the Holy One, Blessed be He, and no one can know in advance when a person’s time will come. These details are documented in the order form. Later, there are typically minimal additional costs for removal, engraving, and reinstalling the slab.
Please note that not all cemeteries permit headstone installation during the client’s lifetime.