Nestled on a picturesque hillside with breathtaking views of the San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys, and within sight of Mt. Baldy, Forest Lawn-Covina Hills has been a cornerstone of the community since opening its gates in 1965. It was the fourth Forest Lawn Memorial-Park to be established, bringing with it exceptional funeral service and the convenience of having everything in one place—mortuary, crematory, cemetery, chapel, and flower shop.
The city of Covina owes its name to a real estate developer named Joseph Swift Phillips, who arrived in the area in 1882. Struck by the way the San Gabriel Mountains formed a natural cove around the thriving vineyards, he combined “cove” and “vine” to create Covina—a name that has endured for generations.
Like Forest Lawn’s locations in Hollywood Hills and Cypress, the mortuary and administration building at Covina Hills was inspired by George Washington’s Mount Vernon home. Its church, The Church of Our Heritage, carries a similar colonial American connection, modeled after St. George’s Church in Virginia, where historical figures like Washington, James Monroe, and John Paul Jones once worshiped.
Covina Hills is also home to significant religious and cultural artworks. The Life of Christ mosaic, displayed on the façade of the Mausoleum of Christian Heritage, and the stunning Sistine Chapel Ceiling Mosaic inside, offer powerful depictions of faith and devotion. The influence of Chinese culture is beautifully reflected in the Columbarium of Meditation, with its pagoda-inspired wall niches, contemplative walking paths, traditional coin symbols, and ceremonial burner. Atop a serene hillside, the Blessing statue stands as a tribute to ancestors who have passed on, who continue to watch over with love, guidance, and enduring blessings.
Beyond its art and architecture, Forest Lawn-Covina Hills offers spectacular memorial property. The Woodlands, a peaceful outdoor columbarium perched atop a secluded hillside, provides a serene retreat for reflection. Honor Garden Terrace, an airy outdoor garden, features a variety of burial and cremation options to accommodate every budget. Looking ahead, a terraced water feature is in development, promising a harmonious blend of statuary, cremation and traditional burial spaces, with meandering paths in a naturally inspired setting.
The beauty and spaciousness of Covina Hills also make it an ideal venue for cherished community events, including Ching Ming in April, Easter, Memorial Day, and Día de los Muertos. These gatherings offer an opportunity for remembrance, reflection, and celebration of life.
For 60 years, we have been honored to serve the San Gabriel and Pomona Valley communities, standing by families in their times of need. We look forward to continuing this tradition of care and compassion for generations to come. To learn more about Forest Lawn-Covina Hills and available memorial options, click here or call 888-204-3131.