Mccall Monument

03/12/2026

What to Include on a Headstone

Beyond names and dates, many families choose inscriptions, symbols, artwork, or photos that tell a fuller story.

This guide walks through the most common choices and how to personalize a headstone with meaning.
https://www.mccallmonument.com/blog/what-to-include-on-a-headstone?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Mccall_Monument&utm_campaign=publer

03/11/2026

Today we recognize the quiet work of funeral directors and morticians.

They show up in the hardest moments, offering families guidance, support, and steadiness when it’s needed most.

At McCall Monument, we are grateful to work alongside so many compassionate professionals who care deeply for the people they serve.

To those who help honor life with dignity: thank you.

03/09/2026

“May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back.”

This Irish blessing has offered comfort for generations.

It’s a wish for peace, for safe passage, and for continued love even in the quiet after loss.

As St. Patrick’s Day nears, we honor the heritage, faith, and memory that shape the families we serve.

03/06/2026

A memorial can be as unique as the life it honors.

This custom headstone features a guitar design to reflect a love of music, a powerful way to remember someone by what brought them joy.

At McCall Monument, we work with families to create designs that go beyond dates. From favorite instruments to symbols of faith or hobbies, we help bring stories to stone with care and meaning.

03/05/2026

Looks like a great way to appreciate some textiles during !

Join me at the State Historical Museum for a pop-in exhibit tour to explore clothing and meaningful cloth throughout the museum's collection. 🧵

Fashion and textiles play a significant role in Iowa's history. In this special guided exhibit tour, participants will learn the fascinating and interesting history of some of the clothing and textiles on display.

March 21, 2026 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

👗 It's FREE but advance registration is required: https://history.iowa.gov/events/pop-museum-tour-fabrics-textiles-and-clothing

03/04/2026

Adding a Portrait or Photo to a Headstone: What to Know

A photo on a headstone adds warmth, identity, and connection. From ceramic portraits to laser etching, there are thoughtful options to consider.

Learn what to know before adding a photo to a memorial.
https://www.mccallmonument.com/blog/adding-photos-to-headstones?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Mccall_Monument&utm_campaign=publer

03/02/2026

A look back. A lasting legacy.

This photograph of a McCall Granite Works monument reminds us just how far back our story goes and how deeply rooted we are in Iowa communities.

Even in the early days, families trusted us to create something meaningful. Something lasting. Something that would stand as a tribute for generations.

We’re proud to carry that same care and craftsmanship forward, one family at a time.

02/27/2026

Quiet moments to remember.

Brew the coffee the way they liked it.
Sit with it. Think of them. Let that quiet time be enough.

02/26/2026

Celebrations of life, a more appropriate name for a funeral or memorial service, provide surviving family members and friends a caring, supportive environment in which to recognize the death of a loved one, and to share thoughts and feelings about that person. Celebrations of life are the first step in the healing process.

The ritual of attending a celebration of life service provides many benefits including:
-Providing a social support system for the bereaved
-Helping the bereaved understand death is final and that death is part of life
-Integrating the bereaved back into the community
-Easing the transition to a new life for the survivors
-Providing a safe place for embracing and expressing pain
-Reaffirming one's relationship with the person who died
-Providing a time to say good-bye

The importance of the ritual is in providing a social gathering to help the bereaved begin the healing process.

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Las celebraciones de la vida, un nombre más apropiado para un funeral o servicio conmemorativo, brindan a los familiares y amigos un entorno afectuoso y de apoyo en el que pueden reconocer el fallecimiento de un ser querido y compartir pensamientos y sentimientos sobre esa persona. Estas celebraciones son el primer paso en el proceso de duelo.

El ritual de asistir a una celebración de la vida ofrece muchos beneficios, entre ellos:
- Proporcionar un sistema de apoyo social a los dolientes
- Ayudar a los dolientes a comprender que la muerte es definitiva y que forma parte de la vida
- Reintegrar a los dolientes en la comunidad
- Facilitar la transición a una nueva vida para los sobrevivientes
- Ofrecer un espacio seguro para expresar y procesar el dolor
- Reafirmar la relación con la persona fallecida
- Brindar un momento para despedirse

La importancia de este ritual radica en proporcionar un encuentro social que ayude a los dolientes a comenzar el proceso de sanación.

02/25/2026

Planning a shared monument together allows couples to reflect, personalize, and make decisions without pressure. It’s about honoring a life shared and creating something meaningful for the future.

Learn how pre-planning can bring clarity and comfort.
https://www.mccallmonument.com/blog/shared-monument-pre-planning-couples?utm_source=fb_page&utm_medium=Mccall_Monument&utm_campaign=publer

02/23/2026

Throwback to July 28, 2025 — a very big (and very heavy) stone reset.

This one took four guys, a ramp, and a lot of grit. We added a new footing, raised, leveled, and reset the monument, all without truck access due to soggy ground.

We think Colton’s smile says it all… job well done. And done in a high heat index, no less. 💪☀️