He loved to fish. She loved to sit and watch the sunrise. What better way to memorialize your loved one than to put a bench or plaque in the very place they loved during their stay on earth?
If you’ve walked along the Fort Pierce inlet jetty recently, you’ve probably noticed the growing number of memorial plaques attached to the rocks. No one seems to know who first started the tradition or who is responsible for their installation. It appears that families and friends of the deceased take it upon themselves to procure and secure the plaques in honor of their sea- and sun-loving departed. Some are etched in slate and granite; others engraved in brass. Some have photos; others have a special poems and epitaphs. All are lovingly placed among the rocks where pelicans rest and the gentle lapping of the waves soothes the soul.
The City of Fort Pierce claims no responsibility or liability for those plaques, and as yet, hasn’t done anything to stop the practice. One thing for sure is that a leisurely walk along the jetty even becomes even more interesting as you stop to read the memorials and wonder about the people and stories behind them.
If you want to be sure that your memorial withstands the test of time against the elements of nature, consider purchasing a commemorative bench from the City of Fort Pierce. Memorial benches pay tribute to your departed loved ones while providing a comfortable seat for visitors to relax and reflect. Four styles of benches are available through the City of Fort Pierce Memorial Bench program and range in price from $500 to $1,500. A representative from the Facilities Maintenance Division will meet with you to discuss the commemorative options and locations. Bench styles are based on compatibility with the park design, function and anticipated maintenance. Benches can be placed on the jetty, beach or in one of the many parks within the city.
Once your bench and location selections are made, the City of Fort Pierce will order, install and maintain it. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy a beautiful view with the memory of your loved one and find comfort in knowing that your lasting memorial will provide a place for others to relax, chat, laugh and watch the world go by. And as life goes on, they are truly never forgotten.
Applications for memorial benches are available on line at www.CityofFortPierce.com. Go to the Public Works page and download the application for the memorial bench program.
Article by: Kerry Firth, correspondent
