Glad tidings

This classic willow-and-urn gravestone has seen better days. A chunk has broken off the top. It tilts to the right. It is weathered.

But don’t pass it by. Look at the date of death. Then look at the epitaph.

Was the epitaph on the gravestone for Anna Foster (d. 1842) chosen because she died so soon after Christmas Day?

Anna Foster
Wife of Richard L.
Foster died dec. 28,
1842. Aged 21 years

And the angel said unto them
fear not for behold I bring you
glad tidings of great Joy which
   shl be to all people.

Foster Chapel Cemetery, Madison County, Ohio