Families Express Frustration Over Maintenance at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens
Families in Savannah, Georgia, are raising concerns about the upkeep and care of gravesites at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. Many have shared their frustrations over the condition of their loved ones’ resting places, citing issues such as dirt-covered gravestones, flooding, and poorly maintained lawns.
Brenda and Mac Salter, who have family members buried at the cemetery, have repeatedly noticed that the markers are often covered with dirt and debris. They also mentioned that flooding can occur in certain areas, leading to further damage and neglect. In response, the Salters have taken it upon themselves to restore and beautify the gravesites.
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“We do our part because we don’t see the cemetery doing it,” Brenda said. “If they mow, they don’t edge around the markers. The grass just grows between them, so my family comes out once a week during the summer to do the edging.”
The Salters are not alone in their efforts. They have observed other families performing similar tasks to keep the gravesites clean and well-maintained. According to Brenda, many people come out on specific days to take care of their loved ones’ resting places, as they feel the cemetery is not fulfilling its responsibilities.
Perpetual care is typically promised when purchasing a plot, but the Salters believe the management has not upheld this commitment. This has led to growing dissatisfaction among families who feel they are being left to handle the maintenance themselves.
John Bokas, the cemetery manager, acknowledged the concerns and emphasized the importance of addressing them. He stated, “If the family is upset, we want to fix that for the families. By no means am I saying the family’s wrong. That’s their perception, and it’s valid. We want to address that individually with each family we serve.”
While the cemetery management claims they are open to resolving these issues, many families continue to feel that their concerns are not being adequately addressed. The lack of consistent maintenance and the visible signs of neglect have created a sense of frustration among those who rely on the cemetery to honor their loved ones.
Common Issues Reported by Families
- Gravestone Maintenance: Dirt and debris frequently cover the markers, making them difficult to read or appreciate.
- Lawn Care: Poorly maintained grass, including lack of edging around markers, leads to an unkempt appearance.
- Flooding: Some areas experience water accumulation, which can damage the gravesites and surrounding grounds.
- Lack of Perpetual Care: Families feel that the promised long-term maintenance is not being fulfilled.
What Can Be Done?
For families who are concerned about the condition of their loved ones’ gravesites, there are several steps they can take:
- Contact the Cemetery Management: Reach out directly to express concerns and request action.
- Document the Issues: Take photos or notes to provide evidence of the problems.
- Seek Support from Other Families: Collaborate with others who may be experiencing similar issues to create a stronger voice for change.
- Request Meetings: Ask for a meeting with the cemetery’s management to discuss solutions and expectations.
Despite the challenges, many families remain committed to ensuring that their loved ones are honored and respected. Their efforts reflect a deep sense of responsibility and love for those who have passed away. However, the ongoing issues at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens highlight the need for better communication and more consistent maintenance practices.
As the conversation continues, it is essential for the cemetery management to listen to the concerns of the families and take meaningful steps to improve the care and upkeep of the gravesites. Only through collaboration and accountability can the community ensure that the memory of their loved ones is preserved with dignity and respect.
