Chains

Medieval thinkers sometimes held that a golden chain bound the soul to the body.

Broken links on a headstone can mean the severance and subsequent release of the spirit for the body. 

Chains are also the insignia of the International Order of Odd Fellows, so called because of the dedication to giving the poor decent burials.  The association can be confirmed by the observation of the letters IOOF or FLT (meaning Friendship, Love, Truth) either inside or near the chain.