Driving past Annotto Bay Cemetery in St. Mary, Jamaica, you may notice a unique and touching sight: life-sized cutouts of the deceased placed next to their graves. This growing trend is designed to help families find burial sites more easily while keeping the memory of their loved ones alive.
A unique way to remember
Life-sized cardboard cutouts of the deceased have become a common sight at Annotto Bay Cemetery. Installed by Exodus Funeral Service, these cutouts serve as a poignant reminder of the departed and make it easier for families to locate the graves of their loved ones in crowded cemeteries.
Brother Teddy, an employee of Exodus Funeral Service, explained that this practice began three to four years ago. Families select a memorial photo of the deceased, which is then turned into a standing, two-dimensional cutout and placed at the gravesite. This not only helps locate the grave, but also keeps the memory of the deceased alive.
Community reactions
Residents have embraced this trend with open arms. Sheldon, a local resident, expressed his joy at honoring his mother’s memory in this way. He mentioned that the cutout makes him feel like his mother is still around, allowing him to take photos and create TikTok videos with her image.
Another local resident, Megil Young, said the cutout of his children’s mother brings comfort to his family. Seeing her picture in the cemetery helps them remember her and feel a connection to her, even after her death.
Practical advantages
The life-size portraits also offer practical benefits. In cemeteries where headstones have weathered or are missing altogether, these cutouts stand out and make it easier for families to locate the graves. Brother Teddy pointed out that the cutouts are reinforced with steel so they will stay up in varying weather conditions.
A growing trend
This custom is not limited to Annotto Bay Cemetery. Hundreds of these cutouts can be found in Highgate, St. Mary, Portland and St. Catherine cemeteries. The trend is becoming increasingly popular as more families recognize the value of this unique way of honoring their loved ones.
Global availability
The life-size portrait trend is not limited to Jamaica. Platforms like Etsy allow people to purchase life-size photographs and portraits from sellers around the world. These items range from handmade objects to vintage treasures, so everyone can find something that suits their needs and aesthetic preferences.
