The Catholic Church purchased the 40 acres, known to the people of Pensacola as Holy Cross Cemetery, in 1914. In 1942, the property in the East Hill Neighborhood of Pensacola was dedicated for use as a Catholic Cemetery.

The Priest's Mound, where priests who have served the diocese and its missions are buried, is among the featured areas of the cemetery.

Other features include a Pieta, Stations of the Cross, a mausoleum, and areas set aside for reflection and prayer.

Monsignor Leo M. Byrnes, who served for many years as the Pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Pensacola, is among the clergy buried here. Monsignor Byrnes also served as Superintendent of Catholic Schools in Alabama and was a former rector of Mobile's Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

Mass is celebrated in the cemetery annually on All Souls Day and Memorial Day by the bishop or his designated representative.

Written by Adam Preisser, Student, Pensacola Catholic High School, 2011.

Copyright Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee, 2011.