Meet the Board: Martha

Zion’s board is made up of volunteers who dedicate their time to helping improve the cemetery and keep it running. Here are a few things to know about one of our board members.

What got you interested in cemeteries?

I have no idea. I’ve always liked cemeteries. They’re beautiful and peaceful and you never know what you’ll find when you walk around looking at the stones.

What would you like to see in Zion’s future?

I would love to see us be able to do some restoration of our administration building, which was built in 1926. I would also love to see us offer columbarium niches, and special garden areas for people to rest in or use for meditation.

What is the most interesting part of being on the board?

Meeting other people who also love cemeteries.

What kind of final disposition do you want for yourself?

I’ve been fascinated by aquamation (alternately called alkaline hydrolysis, bio-cremation, or resomation) since I first read about it years ago in Mary Roach’s book Stiff. I’ve been waiting to see it become available in St. Louis and now it is! They may be referring to it as “flameless cremation” here.

What would you put on your marker?

Believe it or not, this thought wanders through my mind every so often, but I still don’t have a clue.

What is your favorite tree, flower, and season?

Tree: it’s a toss-up. I love live oaks, palm trees, white pines, and catalpas. Flower: calla lilies and plumeria. Season: definitely summer. I hate the cold.