Guides and Resources

Funeral Planning Resources for Oakland Families

Whether you’re facing a loss right now or planning ahead, families across Oakland and the East Bay can find guidance and support here.

You Can Start Here

Find the guidance that fits where you are right now. All of our options provide clear next steps, and our team is here to help whenever you need us.

A Death Has Occurred or is Imminent

Start here for clear, step-by-step guidance on what to do in the next few hours and days. We’ll handle the rest of the details so you can focus on your loved ones.

Get Immediate Support

Planning Ahead

Learn about planning ahead: how it works, what you should document now and how it protects your loved ones later. Start whenever you’re ready.

Start Planning

— Resources

One Place for Funeral Planning Guides and Support

Our funeral planning resources for Oakland families help with the first steps, but also cover emotional support and any other questions that you have.

What to Do When Someone Dies

Help for families in the hours and days after a loss.

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Grief Support and Counseling

Grief resources including support groups and compassionate assistance.

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Legal and Administrative Guidance

Answers about legal steps following a loss.

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Funeral Etiquette and What to Wear

What to wear, what to bring and what to expect when attending a service.

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How to Write an Obituary

Step-by-step guidance for writing an obituary or eulogy, with examples.

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Local Accommodations and Florists

Accommodations for visiting family members, as well as nearby florists.

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— Grief Support

Ongoing Support for the Days After

Grief doesn’t happen on a schedule, and we understand that. These East Bay grief resources are always available, supporting families long after the final service.

Helping Children Cope

Age-appropriate ways to explain death and support children.

Loss of a Spouse or Parent

Resources for navigating life after the loss of a spouse or parent.

In-Person Support Groups

Connect with others who understand your grief.

Guided Aftercare

Daily support delivered to your email.

— Local and Community Resources

Resources Rooted in Oakland

We’ve been part of Oakland’s daily life for more than a century. Find local resources, county guidance and learn why this is a place where Oakland remembers.

Oakland and Alameda County

Guidance for city and county resources for families navigating a loss close to home.

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Events and Gatherings

Chapel of the Chimes, a gathering place for generations, hosts the Garden of Memory Solstice Concert, as well as cultural observances throughout the year.

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Historical Tours

Learn about Oakland’s history and the notable figures resting in our walls, as well as seeing our unique building designed by Julia Morgan.

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1909

FOUNDED

115+ Years

SERVING OAKLAND FAMILIES

100k+

FAMILIES SERVED

24/7

ALWAYS AVAILABLE

— About Us

Honoring Lives Since 1909

Established in 1909, Chapel of the Chimes is an Oakland landmark where history, community and beauty meet. The 1928 expansion was designed with intention by Julia Morgan as a place to honor lives and legacies. No matter what you need now or in the future, our team is available at any hour of the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

We offer guides that help families navigate immediate loss, as well as preplanning and grief support. We also provide guidance for funeral etiquette and obituary and eulogy writing, all in simple terms for Oakland and East Bay families.

A final note

We’re Here Whenever You Need Us

Whether you are dealing with a loss now or planning ahead, our caring team is ready to listen, help and support you through every step.

Need help right now? We’re available 24 hours a day.

We’re here for you during this difficult time.