What is the role of a sexton in a cemetery?

The role of a sexton in a cemetery encompasses the responsibilities of a caretaker, not just of the cemetery itself but often associated with the church as well. Traditionally, a sexton is tasked with maintaining the grounds, ensuring that the cemetery is well-kept and respectful for visitors. This can include duties such as overseeing the burial process and keeping accurate records of interments, which shows the sexton’s importance in managing the operational aspects of a cemetery.

While duties may vary by location, the sexton's role extends beyond oversight from a distance and can involve hands-on tasks like maintaining the landscape and facilities. This position often requires a combination of administrative skills and physical labor, linking it directly to both the church and cemetery environments. The responsibilities of a sexton do not primarily focus on floral arrangements or being an overseer solely for funerals, which highlights the wider scope of the sexton's role in maintaining reverence and order in a cemetery setting.