What to grow

I lost my Dad yesterday after a long illness. He will be buried beside my Little Sister.
I have not had much siccess with keeping the grave looking nice with most of the plants i have planted in the past not doing very well or over growing.
Can someone suggest some plants that will do well unattended for longer periods and a good Rose to plant ( as my Mum's name is Rose).
Will i have to keep a rose planted in a contanier sunk under the grownd to stop it getting too big.
I will be glad of any suggestions to help.

Dermot.