Bench Headstones and Memorial Benches: A 2026 Guide

What is a bench headstone?

A bench headstone, also called a memorial bench or cemetery bench, is a granite seat that serves as the grave marker. Names, dates and an epitaph are engraved on the backrest, the seat or a tablet. It is the only monument designed for visitors to sit beside a loved one, which is why many families choose it for a couple, a family plot or a garden setting.

Which bench headstone designs are available?

The 2026 catalog lists 5 bench designs (starting prices in USD):

• Luxury Heart Companion Granite Bench Memorial with Floral Wreath — from $5,963.04, laid out for two names.
• Luxury Granite Memorial Bench with Sculpted Shield Tablet & Floral Engraving — from $6,447.84.
• Lux Upright Headstone with Marian Emblem & Memorial Bench — from $6,817.50, an upright headstone paired with a bench.
• Luxury Companion Memorial Bench with Heart Accent — from $8,787.00.
• Luxury Marble Angel Columbarium Bench — from $27,919.43, a bench with an angel and space for cremated remains.

Each design is offered in 9 color options. Browse the full bench headstone collection.

Bench headstone or upright headstone?

Choice	Best for
Bench only	A welcoming place to sit, a couple or family plot, garden and estate sections.
Upright with bench	A traditional headstone for the names plus a seat for visitors.
Upright only	Sections that do not allow benches or have limited space. See all headstone types.

Can a bench headstone hold cremated remains?

Some benches include an internal compartment for urns; in our catalog, the Marble Angel Columbarium Bench is that type. Cemeteries treat a cremation bench as an interment, so confirm the section allows it, how the compartment is sealed and who opens it for a later placement.

What cemetery rules apply to memorial benches?

• Whether benches are allowed in the section, and on which plot sizes.
• Maximum length, depth and height, and whether the bench must sit on the grave or at its head.
• The required foundation and who may install it.
• Whether a bench can replace the headstone or must accompany one.

The cemetery has final approval; use our cemetery rules checklist.

What does a bench headstone cost?

Bench designs start from $5,963.04 to $27,919.43 in our 2026 catalog; size, color, artwork and options change the final price. Taxes, cemetery and permit fees, foundation and installation are quoted separately — installation is arranged through Monument Service Group or another qualified provider. Complimentary delivery may apply to eligible orders within the 48 contiguous states; Alaska and Hawaii are quoted separately. See the 2026 price guide and current offers.

How do I order a bench headstone?

Choose a design in the bench collection, then request a quote with your cemetery name or call +1 888 248 6813. Every name, date and detail is checked on a design proof, and production begins only after final written approval and cemetery approval where required. Our installation guide explains what happens next.