Virginia is revered for its history. And one way to appreciate Virginia’s history (and nature beauty) is through an understanding of its historic and beautiful cemeteries.
If you have made the decision to plan a burial in advance, what makes one cemetery different from another? Which Virginia cemeteries are the most rich with history or fit the most with your personal memorialization desires? Let's explore several of the finest cemeteries around the state to find out.
Alleghany Memorial Park
If you are looking for an idyllic setting, Alleghany Memorial Park is it. The Alleghany Mountains surround the grounds, consisting of seven gardens filled with large oak and pine trees. Adjacent to the cemetery is the Jackson River.
Click this link to learn more about Alleghany Memorial Park.
Augusta Memorial Park
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Shenandoah Valley, Augusta Memorial Park was established in 1852. According to local historians, this Virginia cemetery sits atop a Native American burial ground. The cemetery, dating back to Waynesboro's earliest days, is the burial site of many of the city's first settlers.
Click this link to learn more about Augusta Memorial Park.
Briarwood Memorial Garden
Located in Amherst, Briarwood Memorial Garden is near Sweet Briar College and the Monican Indian Reservation. Jim Bibby, a right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball's American League, is buried here.
Click this link to learn more about Briarwood Memorial Garden.
Crestview Memorial Park
Pet lovers will appreciate Crestview Memorial Park, located in LaCrosse. In addition to traditional burial grounds, the memorial park has a pet cemetery. For those who have served in the armed services, the park also has a veterans garden. Eleven other gardens grace the 27-acre grounds, with statues including one of The Last Supper imported from Italy.
Click this link to learn more about Crestview Memorial Park.
Henry Memorial Park
Bassett's Henry Memorial Park is dotted with dogwood trees. Legend has it that the cross upon which Jesus was crucified was made from a dogwood tree. This VA cemetery is steeped in history. According to the Bassett Historical Center, the Davis and Hurd families were early settlers in the area, with vast land holdings. Davis family property included land on which the memorial park is now located.
Click this link to learn more about Henry Memorial Park.
Hillcrest Memory Gardens
Those seeking a mausoleum in the Jeffersonton vicinity will want to visit Hillcrest Memory Gardens, the only cemetery in Virginia with this indoor burial feature. Across from the grounds is a large cow farm with a variety of animals, providing a uniquely bucolic setting.
Click this link to learn more about Hillcrest Memory Gardens.
Laurel Hill Funeral Home and Memorial Park
The grounds of Laurel Hill Funeral Home and Memorial Park in Spotsylvania are considered historical land that date back to the Civil War. Laurel Hill Funeral Home is a Level Four Community Partner, the highest achievement in the We Honor Veterans program. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including songbirds, deer and squirrels.
Click this link to learn more about Laurel Hill Funeral Home and Memorial Park.
Oak Hill Cemetery
Like many cemeteries in Virginia, Oak Hill Cemetery has a rich past. History buffs will find it interesting that Oak Hill Cemetery in Fredericksburg has a replica of the memorial for George Washington's mother. A former town mayor and two major area developers are laid to rest here.
Click this link to learn more about Oak Hill Cemetery.
Oaklawn Mausoleum and Memory Gardens
Near President Woodrow Wilson's birthplace in Staunton, Oaklawn Mausoleum and Memory Gardens is 12 miles from the George Washington National Forest. You'll find a veterans garden as well as gardens named after books in the Bible.
Click this link to learn more about Oaklawn Mausoleum and Memory Gardens.
Panorama Memorial Gardens
As its name implies, this Virginia cemetery offers panoramic mountain views. At the pond's center is a fish-filled pond that attracts migrating geese. Deer also frequent the park.
Click this link to learn more about Panorama Memorial Gardens.
Rockbridge Memorial Gardens
With a Lexington address of 116 Peaceful Lane, Rockbridge Memorial Gardens truly offers a peaceful final resting place. It also has a pet cemetery. The expansive gardens with their hilltop views attract visitors from far and wide. There's even a restaurant nearby.
Click this link to learn more about Rockbridge Memorial Gardens.
Roosevelt Memorial Park
At Chesapeake's Roosevelt Memorial Park you'll see many garden features: The Last Supper, Jesus praying in the garden of Gethsemane, The Woman at the Well, statues of the Four Gospels, and an open bible in the Three Gardens of Prayer. Across the bridge over a wetland is the Chapel of Peace Mausoleum.
Click this link to learn more about Roosevelt Memorial Park.
Rosewood Memorial Park
Distinguished by a beautiful mountain view that sets it apart from other Virginia cemeteries, Rosewood Memorial Park in Rural Retreat has a garden honoring veterans. In addition to traditional burial options, Rosewood offers cremation benches.
Click this link to learn more about Rosewood Memorial Park.
Russell Memorial Cemetery
Russell Memorial Cemetery in Lebanon is the final resting place of former Virginia Gov. Henry Carter Stuart. Its burial services range from traditional burial and cremation to private mausoleums and lawn crypts.
Click this link to learn more about Russell Memorial Cemetery.
Shenandoah Memorial Park
Country music fans may be interested to know that singer Patsy Cline is buried in Winchester's Shenandoah Memorial Park. The grounds feature 11 gardens, a pond and water spout, and a veterans section representing all military branches and 20th-century wars.
Click this link to learn more about Shenandoah Memorial Park.
Southlawn Memorial Park
South Prince George is home to Southlawn Memorial Park, which has the only community mausoleums in the area. The beauty of the South is reflected in its many magnolia trees. Visitors to this VA cemetery also find peaceful reflection near the duck pond and fountain.
Click this link to learn more about Southlawn Memorial Park.
Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery
At Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Fredericksburg, unique features include two baby gardens as well as a pet cemetery. The cemetery was established in 1957.
Click this link to learn more about Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
Throughout Virginia, you'll find cemeteries with a variety of burial options. Before you decide on a final resting place, it's a good idea to visit the cemetery to ensure it meets your expectations.
