THE WARREN-WATCHUNG CONNECTION PAGE 10 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 theconnectionsnj.com or more than 100 years, families throughout the Somerset Hills have placed their trust in Holy Cross Cemetery as a peaceful resting place for their loved ones. Before Holy Cross opened in 1924, Catholic families in the area relied on cemeteries that were nearly a two-hour round trip from Bernardsville. The community needed a cemetery closer to home. In early 1923, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Bernardsville began exploring the purchase of a 22-acre property owned by William and Ellen Ryan. By October of that year, the parish received state approval to establish a cemetery, and the land was officially acquired. The first burials took place on Sunday, April 27, 1924, when mourners gathered to lay to rest Miss Maud L. Drummond, Mrs. Henry Lawer (Agnes), and Miss Marion K. Boudrean. Stewardship Rooted in Tradition For a century, Holy Cross Cemetery has been more than a final resting place. It has been a reflection of the values of the community it serves. Each generation has entrusted the cemetery with preserving memories, honoring faith traditions, and maintaining a space of dignity and respect. That responsibility continues today through thoughtful planning, careful maintenance, and a commitment to serving families with compassion and understanding at every stage of need. A Peaceful Setting for Generations Today, Holy Cross Cemetery continues its mission of compassionate service to families in Somerset Hills and the surrounding communities. Visitors often share how peaceful and welcoming the cemetery feels—a reflection of both the natural beauty of the grounds and the care provided by our dedicated team. Conveniently located off I-287 and Mount Airy Road, the surroundings are embraced on all sides by forest. In spring, vibrant azaleas, forsythia, and flowering shrubs brighten the landscape, bringing the grounds to life with color. Our staff maintains the cemetery yearround, ensuring a serene and respectful environment every season. Recent improvements include the large cross at our entrance and a new informational kiosk featuring helpful resources, quarterly clean-up dates and a map. Burial Options for Every Family Holy Cross Cemetery offers a full range of interment choices to meet a variety of needs and preferences with options available for a range of budgets and family preferences. • Traditional ground plots • Two mausoleums with single and true-companion crypts • Marble and glass niches • A tranquil Columbarium Garden for cremations • Reserved space on our perimeter for individual family mausoleums The cemetery is open daily from dawn to dusk, with interments scheduled Monday through Saturday mornings. To help visitors locate loved ones, our website includes an online burial locator, and our front-entrance kiosk provides a convenient Walk-to-Site QR code. You Are Welcome Here We invite you to visit Holy Cross Cemetery to experience its peaceful surroundings for yourself. If you have questions or would like to learn more about interment options, our office is always here to help. COMMENDS Holy Cross Cemetery – Serving the Catholic Community of Somerset Hills for over 100 Years A Sacred Place for Generations Past and Present CONNECTION 145 Mount Airy Rd. Basking Ridge, NJ 908-766-0079 holycrosscem.com F HOLY CROSS CEMETERY & MAUSOLEUM OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP PARISH 145 Mount Airy Rd. | Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 (908) 766-0079 | www.holycrosscem.com
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