Families Urged to Add Names to Galilee Memorial Gardens Vacant Burial Site List

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI) is urging individuals with possible claims on vacant burial plots at Galilee Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Bartlett, Tenn. to contact the department’s Special Deputy Receiver in order to help preserve their burial rights.

As part of TDCI’s ongoing efforts to oversee Galilee Memorial Gardens Cemetery, families who believe they have claims on vacant grave space should call (615) 370-0051 and add their names to the list of families being compiled by TDCI’s Special Deputy Receiver. After calling the Special Deputy Receiver’s phone number, families will be mailed an affidavit they must sign, notarize and return along with a copy of their deed or bill of sale that supports their potential ownership of space at the cemetery.

The deadline for submitting claims is August 15, 2015.  

The compilation of a list of families who have possible claims on vacant burial sites is the latest step undertaken by TDCI to help resolve issues created at the cemetery by its former owners. 

“Since being named receiver of the cemetery more than a year ago, TDCI has taken numerous actions to ensure the efficient and appropriate oversight of Galilee Memorial Gardens Cemetery,” said TDCI Deputy Commissioner Bill Giannini. “Creating a list of families who have claims on grave spaces is the next crucial task that must be completed as part of this process.”

Additionally, TDCI is also seeking court approval to add more than three (3) acres of land to Galilee Memorial Gardens Cemetery as part of the cemetery’s possible expansion. Final paperwork for the acquisition should be completed June 1. 

“TDCI’s team continues to make strides in helping protect the future of families who have loved ones buried at Galilee Memorial Gardens,” Giannini said. “We thank the public and volunteers for their patience as we work on behalf of those affected in this situation. It is our great hope to eventually return the cemetery to a place that families can come and pay their respects and grieve in an environment that honors their memory with dignity.”

Further news about Galilee Memorial Gardens will be released as details become available.

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