Obituaries

Upcoming Services

We are available 24 hours a day throughout the Bay Area. Call (415) 921-3636

What to Do First

In the first moments after a death it can feel overwhelming to know what to do— this guide offers four immediate steps and reassurance.
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Advanced Planning Checklist

We have provided a summarized list of the information we might ask about during an Advanced Planning meeting. We will support and guide you through the process regardless of what information you have ready.
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A Guide for the Comforter

We are offer some guidelines—many based on Jewish customs—on what you may expect regarding funerals, burials, and visits to the family in mourning.
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Annual Day of Learning

Our annual Day of Learning focuses on Jewish rituals that support our community through the stages of <span style="white-space: nowrap">end-of-life,</span> death, and grief.
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Cemetery Services

We offer burial options at three beautiful locations – Briones, Colma, and Oakland – and work closely with all cemeteries in the Bay Area and any cemetery in the world so you can choose a meaningful resting place.

Arranging a Meaningful Resting Place

Unveiling Services

We can coordinate all cemetery logistics for an unveiling ceremony (Hakamat Matzeiah) if so desired by your family.

Markers & Headstones

Sinai Memorial can guide you through the process of selecting a marker, headstone, or monument (Matzevah) that honors the deceased.

Plot Selection

Our compassionate team will help you navigate buying or reserving a plot, including family estates or mausoleum space.

Our Beautiful Cemetery Locations

Eternal Home Cemetery

1051 El Camino Real Colma, CA 94014

(650) 755-5236

Gan Shalom Cemetery

1100 Bear Creek Road Briones, CA 94553

(925) 228-3636

Home of Eternity
Cemetery & Mausoleum

5000 Piedmont Ave Oakland, CA 94611

(925) 962-3636

Testimonial

“These kind and compassionate people helped find a Jewish cemetery in the area and made planning easy.”

— Lauren N., Yelp Reviewer

Cemetery Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I’ve already purchased a burial plot?

If you’ve already selected a cemetery or purchased a burial plot, Sinai Memorial will coordinate directly with the cemetery on your behalf. You do not need to manage those logistics yourself—we will handle what’s needed as part of caring for you and your family or chosen family.

Can Sinai Memorial help me choose a cemetery?

Yes. If you haven’t chosen a cemetery yet, we can guide you through your options—whether you prefer a Jewish cemetery in the Bay Area or in another community anywhere around the world. We work closely with all local cemeteries and can help you find an option that reflects your family’s wishes, traditions, and practical needs.

What should I consider when choosing a cemetery?

Many families consider:

Family connections: Are other loved ones buried there?
Synagogue affiliation: Some cemeteries have sections connected to specific congregations
Proximity: Ease of visiting for family and friends
Marker requirements: Some cemeteries allow only flat, ground‑level markers
Cost: Prices vary significantly across the Bay Area

Our staff can walk you through these considerations and help you make a thoughtful, informed choice.

Does Sinai Memorial work with all Jewish cemeteries in the Bay Area?

Yes. We maintain strong relationships with Jewish cemeteries throughout the Bay Area—including those we own and manage, independent cemeteries, and synagogue-operated sections. Our role is to help ensure arrangements reflect your values and needs, wherever burial takes place.

Are there green burial options at Jewish cemeteries?

Jewish burial has long emphasized simplicity, natural materials, and returning the body to the earth. In this sense, traditional Jewish burial has always been “green.”

At Sinai Memorial, green burial is offered at Eternal Home Cemetery, which includes the only Green Burial Council–certified green burial section in Colma. This dedicated area allows only biodegradable caskets or shrouds and does not use concrete liners, reflecting both Jewish tradition and contemporary environmental standards.

When can I visit a gravesite?

Cemetery grounds are typically open for visiting during posted daylight hours 9am to 4pm Sunday to Friday. Visiting does not require an appointment. If you are unsure about access on a particular day or have special circumstances (mobility needs, large groups, educational tours, clergy visits), we encourage you to call ahead so we can help.

What is the difference between “gates open” and “office open” at a cemetery?

This is a question we often receive.

“Gates open” means cemetery grounds are open for visiting and private reflection.
“Office open” means staff are available on-site to provide assistance, answer questions, locate graves, process paperwork, or help with services.

On some days, the gates may be open even when offices are closed and no services are available.

Are Sinai’s cemeteries open on Jewish holidays or secular holidays?

Cemetery access varies by holiday. Sinai’s cemeteries are typically closed on Jewish holidays and open on secular holidays, but we recommend calling ahead to confirm a specific date.

How do I find where a family member is buried?

If you are looking for the burial location of a family member or loved one, we can help. Please contact our office and provide as much information as you have (name, date of death, cemetery, if known). Our staff will guide you.

How do I find information about an upcoming funeral service?

If you are attending a funeral service and need details such as time, location, or directions, please visit our upcoming services page. If you cannot find information there, Sinai Memorial can help confirm service information and guide you on where to go.

Who should I call if I’m not sure what I need?

It is completely okay to call with questions—even if you’re not sure what you’re looking for or what comes next. These are questions we answer every day. Sinai Memorial is available at (415) 921‑3636, and our staff is here to help with clarity, patience, and care.

Still have questions?