Congregation Beth Shalom (CBS) established a Jewish section within Naperville Cemetery (NCA) in 1990. In time the gravesites in this section had all been sold, and an additional section was purchased. This newer Jewish section is in a different area of the cemetery and has provided us room to expand as our needs grow. Our sections have large monuments marking them for Congregation Beth Shalom. Although there are specific additional restrictions to be buried within our sections, we are bound to abide by all regulations placed by Naperville Cemetery- including pricing. Congregation Beth Shalom does not make money from the sale of burial plots; this is done as a service to our members and the community around us.
Who may purchase plots in the Congregation Beth Shalom Cemetery?
These Jewish cemetery sections are open to members of Congregation Beth Shalom and their families, as well as members of the greater Jewish community. Members of our congregation receive preference over non-members and receive a discount in pricing. Members of the greater Jewish community are encouraged to make an additional donation, as they are able, to Congregation Beth Shalom. Please note that once plots are sold, consistent with Naperville Cemetery policy, Congregation Beth Shalom cannot buy back the deeds to plots in the cemetery.
Who may be buried in Congregation Beth Shalom Cemetery?
Anyone who is Jewish and their non-Jewish spouses and family members may be buried in the CBS section as long as burials conform to our policies of not having non-Jewish religious symbols on gravestones. All burial services at the graveside must be performed by Jewish clergy or those approved to perform such services consistent with Jewish traditions. Burials of infants, cremation urns, suicides and convicted felons are allowed. Burial on the Sabbath (sundown Friday to sundown Saturday) and certain Jewish Holidays is prohibited.
Grave Markers
Markers on individually owned sites may be of the owner’s design. Markers may span multiple gravesites. Markers may not display non-Jewish religious symbols. U. S. Veterans’ symbols are allowed. The marker base plus the marker may not exceed NCA guidelines for markers, monuments and mausoleums as specified in the most current NCA regulations. Current regulations are available from Congregation Beth Shalom.
Landscaping
Individual gravesite owners may landscape their sites. No non-Jewish religious symbols are permitted in any landscaping. Landscaping is limited to flowers and other low plants. Such plantings must remain within the boundaries of the site itself. Landscaping maintenance is the responsibility of the site owner or their estate. If not properly maintained, NCA will perform maintenance and invoice the owner or their estate. Fences, walls or other permanent structures are not allowed (as per NCA regulations). Landscaping must meet NCA regulations (available through Congregation Beth Shalom).
Perpetual care
Perpetual care is provided as part of the purchase price by NCA for the grounds only. This does not extend to markers or any gravesite landscaping. Any additional landscaping needs shall be between NCA and the owner of the gravesite(s).
Liability Insurance
NCA carries insurance to cover accident/injury on its grounds. CBS assumes no liability for accidents occurring at the Cemetery.
Further Information
For further information, answers to questions, and review of specific guidelines please call the Congregation Beth Shalom office at 630-961-1818 or email cemetery@napershalom.org. A member of the committee will contact you within 48-72 hours.