Frequently Asked Questions

How does the memorial selection process work?

Whether you visit our Cookeville office or prefer that we come to you, one of our experienced counselors will take the time to listen to your needs and wishes. We want to understand your loved one’s story and your vision for their monument.
Our professional designers will show you sample memorials, discuss personalization options, and help you create a custom design that beautifully reflects the life being honored.

Do I have to buy a monument from my funeral home or cemetery?

No. Funeral homes and cemeteries in Tennessee cannot legally require you to buy a monument or headstone from them. You are free to choose any trusted monument company, such as Harris Monument Company in Cookeville, for better quality and pricing.

What should I know before purchasing a cemetery monument?

Every cemetery has its own rules for monument size, color, and material. It’s best to check those first—or we can contact the cemetery for you.
Once you know the guidelines, you can choose a monument style that fits your loved one’s personality and your budget. We offer a wide variety of granite and marble headstones, upright monuments, flat grave markers, and custom engraving options.

How can I order a custom monument or headstone?

Harris Monument Company specializes in custom headstones and memorials throughout Cookeville and Middle Tennessee. You can choose from many shapes, colors, and materials. Call or visit us to start your custom design and receive a free quote.

What if I live out of town but the cemetery is near Cookeville?

No problem. We regularly assist families who live outside the area. We can design, proof, and finalize everything by phone, email, or mail—and we’ll handle the installation locally once the monument is complete.

What materials are used for monuments and headstones?

Before purchasing, check your cemetery’s material requirements. We can verify these for you.
Common materials include:

Granite:
The most popular material for modern memorials. Granite is durable, weather-resistant, and available in many colors like gray, blue-gray, red, and black. It can be sandblasted or laser-etched depending on the design.

Marble:
Loved for its timeless beauty and elegant veining. White marble is most common, often featuring soft gray streaks. It is slightly softer than granite and best suited for traditional memorials.

Bronze:
Bronze markers are commonly used in perpetual care cemeteries. They can be installed with or without a granite base. We are authorized dealers for top U.S. bronze memorial foundries, ensuring the highest quality.

Do you sell the same bronze memorials used by cemeteries?

Yes. We offer the same top-quality bronze memorials as local cemeteries, often at a lower price. All our bronze memorials meet or exceed cemetery standards.

What is granite?

Granite is a natural stone made of several visible minerals that give it its unique color and texture. It’s extremely durable and weather-resistant, making it the most popular material for headstones and monuments in Tennessee. Granite comes in many colors and finishes to fit any style.

What is marble?

Marble is a softer, elegant stone that’s been used for centuries in sculpture and architecture. It weathers more easily than granite but remains a classic choice for families who value its traditional beauty. Popular options include white Georgia and Vermont marble.

What’s the difference between marble and granite?

Marble is compressed limestone, known for its soft color and smooth texture.
Granite is a volcanic stone made from molten rock, making it much harder and more durable. Granite shows more grain and color variation, while marble offers a smooth, refined appearance.

Are death dates included in the monument price?

If the passing date is known when you order, it will be engraved at no extra charge.
If added later, we’ll confirm the information with you, have paperwork signed, and provide a quote for engraving the additional date.

What is your turnaround time for monuments?

We keep many stones in stock, which allows us to complete most headstones and memorials faster than our competitors. Depending on the material and design, most orders are completed and set within 2 to 14 weeks.

Do you offer other services?

Yes! In addition to traditional cemetery monuments, we provide:

• Custom engraving and sandblasting

• Pet memorials

• Granite and marble statues

• Cemetery candles and accessories

• Monument restoration and cleaning services

• And more!

Contact us for details or custom requests.

What makes Harris Monument Company stand out?

We’re a family-owned Cookeville monument company with nearly 50 years of experience creating beautiful, lasting memorials. We combine craftsmanship, compassion, and affordability to provide the highest quality at the best prices in town. Our goal is to help families celebrate life with dignity and care.