When was the last time you consulted the internet before deciding which product to buy, which restaurant to try, or which vacation destination to visit? If you regularly read reviews before making a purchase, you’re not alone! Nearly 95% of shoppers do so, and they are influenced by their findings. There’s no question the internet has dramatically changed how people in El Cerrito, Kensington, Richmond, and Berkeley select products and services – and this includes how families choose a funeral home – which of course is one of the most important choices you may ever make.

Regularly, our staff at Sunset View Cemetery & Mortuary checks the reviews we receive on our Facebook page and on Yelp – and we always take people’s words to heart. After all, we know when a family chooses Sunset View, they deserve and expect the very best level of care. Whether they come to plan a funeral or cremation, whether they would like a reception after a service, or want to honor a veteran, it’s our responsibility to meet each need in a personal and professional way. Reading those online reviews and the letters and notes people send, and of course, talking to every family after the service is over helps us stay connected to how our neighbors feel about the services we provide.

Do you wonder what some of the families we have served have to say about our service? You can find many reviews on Facebook and other places on the web. Here are a few of those online reviews we’ve read:

“From my first call months ago when my mom started hospice, the staff at Sunset View made things tolerable, even pleasant. There was no sales pitch and all of my questions were answered. I was made to feel like I had choices and plenty of time to change my mind and think things through. Tom took his time with us and called me personally to keep me updated on everything. Best experience one can have during difficult times.” – Ashley J.

“This summer I looked into having my mother’s remains transferred from the East Coast and buried in a local cemetery. I visited several places and when I drove into the Sunset View Cemetery with views overlooking the water, I realized this was it. Better yet, the staff at Sunset View are TOP–they are empathetic, patient, and make it their priority to make sure you experience what you expected during this emotional process. There was none of the salesmanship vibe I sensed at other mortuaries, and no surprise costs. I cannot emphasize enough how wonderful and satisfying it feels to know that I got my mother’s final resting place right. With beautifully maintained grounds and majestically towering eucalyptus trees, Sunset View is a place of solace. I enjoy visiting, time and time again.” – SWC

“The staff was very accommodating, and made our family feel welcome, and did not hurry us, despite there being several other burials that afternoon. What could be a stressful event turned out to be a blessed time. Thanks!” – Kate G.

“I have ten family members buried here. It is always beautifully maintained, and the bay views are spectacular. It’s quite common to see visitors, such as myself, spend extra time soaking up the sun and enjoying the serenity. The staff is always courteous, helpful, and respectful.”
– Sheila M.

“Our entire experience was smooth and easy thanks to Scott Pennington and the first-class staff at Sunset View.  Scott became our contact during the entire process and was there for us at the viewing in their chapel, funeral mass the next day at St Jerome’s Church, and final entombment. He made sure that everything went smoothly. If he promised a phone call at a specific time, we got it. Scott and his staff are experts in their field and did everything possible to help us honor our mom in a most beautiful and memorable way.” – Marty B.

These words mean so much to us! We’ve been serving families in the Bay Area since 1908, and nothing is more important than preserving the strong reputation and good will we’ve built with those living in the Pinole, Oakland, and surrounding areas. Our longevity in the community, our cemetery’s incredible views, our newly remodeled facility – we do it all to meet the needs of our neighbors. We encourage you to come to us when it’s time to plan a tribute for a loved one, or if you’re interested in preplanning your own arrangements. You can have confidence we will treat you like family.