Throughout the 18th century, headstones were inscribed with words of comfort or caution for the living. Here are some from the churchyard of St. Illtud’s in Llantwit Major.
From the grave of Joan Baffett, died 1739 at the age of 36:
Husband now my life is past
My love for you so Long did last
Now for me no Sorrow take
But love my Children for my sake.
From the grave of Jennet Howells, died 176(2?) at the age of 66:
Farewell my Husband & my Children dear
For me I pray you would not shed one tear.
My Body here a while do take its rest
In hopes to meet you all amongst ye blest.
From the grave of Evan Howells, son of the above Jennet Howells, died 1764 at the age of 39:
No Root nor Branch, nor youth nor age
Can Death’s last Tyranny assuage
The Rest is Sweet, the Day draws Nigh;
Go Reader go, prepare to die.