Saint George expands Tawniquint Cemetery with 2500 new burial plots and infant section

On April 8, 2025, a significant meeting was held in Washington County, Utah, to discuss the expansion of Tonaquint Cemetery, a project that aims to enhance the community's capacity for honoring lost loved ones. The cemetery, located off Dixie Drive in St. George, is a cherished space for many families, providing a tranquil environment for remembrance and reflection.

During the meeting, community members, including the mayor, shared personal stories about their experiences with loss, emphasizing the cemetery's role as a sacred space. The expansion will add five acres to the cemetery, which is nearing capacity, and will include various new features designed to accommodate the needs of families. Among the planned additions are 2,500 new burial plots, with over 800 designated for upright headstones, as well as a new cremation site known as a columbarium. This expansion will also introduce an ossuary for co-mingled ashes, providing affordable internment options.

A particularly poignant aspect of the expansion is the creation of a dedicated infant section, which will feature a statue known as the Christmas Angel. This area aims to provide solace for families who have lost children, recognizing the profound grief associated with such losses. The mayor highlighted the importance of having a special place for parents to find comfort and community support during their difficult times.

The total cost of the cemetery expansion is estimated at $3 million, which the city anticipates will be recouped through the sale of burial lots. The cemetery is designed to be self-sufficient, with a dedicated maintenance staff ensuring its upkeep.

The meeting concluded with a prayer dedicated to those who have passed, reinforcing the cemetery's mission as a place of peace and hope for families. As the community moves forward with this expansion, Tonaquint Cemetery will continue to serve as a vital space for remembrance and connection, offering comfort to those navigating the pain of loss.