I was taught the same. Lightning seeks the highest point, and cemeteries are often on high ground.
Technically, the path with the least electrical resistance passes the charge. That is made complex by the makeup of the soil and objects standing on the soil. It is strongly affected by any ionization already present in the air. For example, a steel flagpole anchored deeply in the ground will take a hit before an oak tree of the same height. (In the same vicinity) Next, the position of the charged air relative to possible strike points has to be considered. Distance to a strike point from the charged air is a major factor.
All babble aside, stay clear of tall things during a lightning storm.
Lightning doesn't necessarily originate in clouds. It can nail you on a cloudless day, a "bolt from the blue" really is possible. Oh, lightning most certainly will strike one place more than once.