What is the primary duty of the sexton in a cemetery?

The primary duty of the sexton in a cemetery is to maintain the grounds. This role encompasses a variety of responsibilities that are vital for the upkeep and overall appearance of the cemetery, including the care of burial sites, landscaping, and ensuring that the cemetery is clean and well-organized. A sexton is typically tasked with tasks such as managing the physical space, marking graves, and ensuring proper maintenance of pathways, fences, and signage.

While the other roles mentioned, such as arranging funerals, conducting memorial services, and assisting families with grief, are essential in the larger context of funeral service or grief support, they do not fall under the specific functions of a sexton. The sexton's focus is more operational and maintenance-oriented, which is crucial to creating a respectful and peaceful environment for visitors and families honoring their loved ones.