Cemeteries Are Sacred

The Franklin Cemetery
For those who didn’t grow up in a desert, the Franklin Cemetery is quite a shock. I have heard some who see it say that it makes them think of “Boot Hill” in old cowboy movies. I guess I can see that, except that it is cared for. It sits on the side of a hill, across the railroad track and the Franklin Wash. It is surrounded by a barbed wire fence with a gate, but is certainly open to the ravages of nature and the creatures of the desert. It is dry, covered with gravel and not much grows there except for the natural weeds and brush. However, it is hallowed ground and has the most beautiful view of Franklin farm land and Steeple Rock. Our parents often went out to check on the graves and to keep our areas clear of weeds and debris. We buried our father, Vernon, on a cold December day and we buried our mother, Vessa, the day of a torrential summer downpour. And I thought it was beautiful both days.

The Duncan Cemetery
The Duncan Cemetery is built on a hill overlooking the town of Duncan. Because of its location, this cemetery has water available, so it has more vegetation and isn’t bleak. They have planted some tams and other hearty plants to soften the look, although it doesn’t have grass on the graves like city cemeteries do. It also has a beautiful view of the Duncan valley that we have loved and Steeple Rock. It, too, is important and sacred because of those whose remains wait there for the resurrection.