About the Catholic Monument Design Center
In the life of every person, there comes a time when we are faced with the death of someone we love. At that moment, we rely upon our faith in Jesus and His promise of resurrection to all who believe. At that same time, the community of believers around us reaches out to express comfort and consolation.
Since the time of Jesus, the burial of the Christian faithful has been a part of our Church experience. Catholic cemeteries exist because of our belief in the resurrection of the body, in some new shape or form, at the end of time. Catholic cemeteries serve the Church by spanning the kingdom now present and the kingdom yet to come. On behalf of the entire Christian community, the Catholic cemetery holds the bodies, once temples of the Holy Spirit, until the Lord comes again in glory. It serves as a symbol of the extended community of believers, a community unbroken by death.
Every person deserves to be remembered with a permanent headstone. The Catholic Monument Design Center can help whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or honoring the life of a loved one.
Whether you’re acting in the moment or planning ahead, let us guide you. The Catholic Monument Design Center is here to help guide you in designing your custom memorial.
Our Memorial Design Specialists will help you design a memorial that is best for you and your family. We can walk with you through our grounds to view other monuments for inspiration. We can also meet virtually through Video Sharing technology.
Our memorials are available in a variety of designs, sizes, and prices crafted by the finest of manufacturers.
Our Team
Jeff Touchette, Memorial Design Specialist
Jeff has honored the legacy of many Catholic families with helping them create timeless custom designed memorials.
Jeff began his career with Albany Diocesan Cemeteries in 2014, working with families at the St. Agnes and Most Holy Redeemer offices before the Catholic Monument Design Center was founded in 2018.
As a graduate of International Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association (ICCFA) University and the Rensselaer Co. Chamber of Commerce Leadership institute, Jeff’s expertise and dedication lead to a 2018 Pinnacle Award of Excellence from Rock of Ages.
In his spare time Jeff enjoys coaching a Special Olympics track and softball team The Thunderbolts, as well as golfing and making pizza.
One of Jeff’s favorite quotes that he carries with him in his professional and personal life is “Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today.”- Will Rogers
“I think we have a very important job here at the Catholic Monument Design Center. We only have one chance to be perfect and we strive to achieve that with every family.”
Michael D. Conti, Memorial Design Specialist
Michael’s career spans over 35 years with assisting families in their catholic cemetery needs. Prior to the start of his career as a Family Service Representative for Albany Diocesan Cemeteries in 2011, Michael worked for parishes cemeteries within the Albany Diocese.
In late 2022, Michael transitioned from his work at Albany Diocesan Cemeteries to The Catholic Monument Design Center, bringing his love of working with families and design together to help create unique and custom memorials.
Michael is a graduate of International Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association (ICCFA) University and the Rensselaer County Chamber of Commerce Leadership institute.
Outside of work he enjoys music, theater, hiking, biking, and kayaking with family and friends.
A favorite quote “None of this is being done to us, all of this is being done for us.” keeps him centered in his work and life, reminding him that God is in control.
Some of the greatest joys in his work are working with individuals who are part of this ministry and being able to help guide families with making decisions during a difficult time. Michael is driven to educating people about the importance of planning ahead in order to take away some of the stressors of the inevitable, providing a more peaceful transition in mourning the loss of a loved one.
Albany Diocesan Cemeteries is a proud member of:
