What is the function of a temporary grave marker?

The function of a temporary grave marker is primarily to serve as a simple identifier for a grave. After a burial, families often utilize these markers to clearly indicate the location of the grave until a more permanent headstone can be installed. Temporary grave markers are especially practical in the immediate aftermath of a burial, providing a way for friends and family to find the resting place of their loved one during a time of mourning.

These markers are typically simple in design and can be made from various materials, often including wood, plastic, or metal. Their purpose is purely functional, aimed at providing clarity in identifying the grave site rather than serving any decorative or commemorative function. This differentiates them distinctly from decorative signs or permanent headstones, which have additional roles in honoring the deceased and marking their final resting place more permanently.