What does a dove signify on a headstone? DOVE: In general, doves represent innocence, peace, and/or the Holy Spirit. The meaning of a particular dove depends on what it is doing. A dove that appears to be swooping down from above symbolizes a loved one taking the deceased up to heaven. If the dove itself appears dead, as in the photo above, it stands for someone who died young. The tiny tree stump here is another reference to a life cut short. So sad! (How to comment: Please comment about this post on Tui Snider’s Facebook. Leave your link in…