Blog

A Guide to Memorial Ceremony Etiquette

Attending a memorial ceremony is a meaningful gesture of respect, remembrance, and support. At Sunset View Cemetery, our compassionate staff members understand how important it is for guests to feel confident and informed on such sensitive occasions. Below is a caring guide to help you observe proper etiquette at a…

Why More People Are Choosing Cremation for Their Loved Ones

More Americans than ever are choosing cremation – and it’s estimated that the number will only continue to rise. Our staff members at Sunset View Cemetery receive a lot of questions from our neighbors in      El Cerrito, Oakland, and Kensington about why this is the case. There are many reasons families…

3 Reasons You Should Be Talking About Death With Your Family

Talking about death is never easy. At Sunset View Cemetery, our caring staff members understand that these conversations can feel uncomfortable, but they are some of the most important discussions you can have with your loved ones. Planning ahead and sharing your wishes can provide clarity, reduce stress, and bring…

How to Honor a Loved One Who Asked for No Funeral

The ritual of a funeral allows friends and family the opportunity to process their grief in a public, supported environment. When no funeral takes place, it can be difficult for those left behind to experience the closure needed after a death. There are alternative options for paying tribute to someone who…

Special Memorial Options for Honoring Veterans

At Sunset View Cemetery, we recognize the profound sacrifices made by our nation's veterans. Honoring their service is not just a duty but a privilege. We offer a range of memorial options to ensure that each veteran's legacy is commemorated with the respect and dignity they deserve. Military Funeral Honors…

Are You Grieving or Depressed? Here’s How to Tell the Difference

Every day, our staff meets with families in Kensington, Pinole, El Cerrito, and the surrounding area who have lost a friend or family member. Some arrive at Sunset View Cemetery, tired but at peace, having had time to say goodbye and prepare for their loved one’s death. Others have had…

Personal Touches That Make Your Funeral Unforgettable

At Sunset View Cemetery, we realize that each of our neighbors in El Cerrito, Pinole, Richmond, and beyond wants their loved one’s funeral to be an unforgettable experience. Adding personal touches to a funeral ensures your loved one’s celebration is both memorable and meaningful. Highlight the five senses. If a loved…

How Our Funeral Home Helps Families Feel At Home

When you walk through the doors of Sunset View Cemetery, we want you to feel something more than comfort—we want you to feel at home, whether you hail from El Cerrito, Oakland, Kensington, or surrounding areas. For generations, our mission has been to provide compassionate care in a setting that…

When Death Is Sudden and Unexpected

Losing a loved one is always difficult, but when that loss is sudden and unexpected, the shock and grief can feel overwhelming. Unlike anticipated deaths, where families may have some time to prepare emotionally and practically, sudden loss leaves little time to adjust, making the grieving process particularly challenging. At…

Is Traditional Burial Better than Cremation?

Families have to make many important and deeply personal decisions after a loved one dies, including whether to choose traditional burial or cremation. Often, this decision is a complicated one due to conflicting opinions, religious convictions, and financial considerations. That’s where the professional staff at Sunset View Cemetery comes in. We know a meaningful tribute brings…