First of all, I welcome all corrections, additions, and link requests, and I am happy to transfer postings to relatives or (in cases where I'm not related to the subject) to anyone with a special interest in managing a particular person's listing. I'm not in this to rack up "numbers" but to preserve and honor the memory of those who have passed on and help those who may be looking for information about their lives. I always try to add as much information as possible to any posting I make, even those to whom I am not related, and I note where the information is speculative, not to claim I'm right but in the hope that others with more definitive information will come forward so we can figure things out as best we can.

I have loved searching through old graveyards since I became interested in genealogy at age 12. I am the "cyber-founder" of three cemeteries on this site, Prospect Cemetery in Bois d'Arc, MO, Johns Chapel near Ash Grove, MO, and Yeakley Chapel near Republic, MO, the latter of which was actually founded by my ancestor. Besides these "top 3," several other members of my family may be found in Wade Chapel, also near Republic. Although I visit these cemeteries once or twice a year, I live in the Washington, DC area (unfortunately!).

I feel it is a real labor of love to remember our ancestors and keep their memories alive, including in ways they never could have imagined such as this site. As long as they live on in our hearts, they are never really gone.

In addition to visiting my own people, I always end up visiting famous people's graves wherever I go. I've made 3 pilgrimages to Jim Morrison's grave, 2 to Elvis', and 5 to Lenin's plus one to Marx's. Wandered around Recoleta but never found Evita. The saddest grave I've ever visited - Andy Gibb's. Worst maintained public cemetery - Highgate in London. Spookiest - the Kaisergruft in Vienna (it was so overwhelming I had to flee!).

By the way, I am also a graduate of Grinnell College, alma mater of the creators of this wonderful site. Last but not least, on behalf of myself and at least 3 previous generations of my ancestors who were fans before me, I would like to say Congratulations to the St. Louis Cardinals, World Series 2011 Champions! I was at Game 6, the greatest single event I have ever seen, as well as Game 7. Absolutely awesome!