End of Life
Death, Funerals and Mourning
When death is imminent or when it occurs, the Temple Isaiah clergy stands ready to assist member families.
Temple Isaiah Guide to Death & Mourning
If a family wishes that one of our rabbis guide them in the process of Jewish burial and mourning practices and lead funeral services we ask that no announcement of date and time of funeral be made without consulting with them. They will make every effort to adjust their schedules at your time of need.
The community will stand with the mourners during shivah (the initial mourning period following the funeral). In general, when a family contacts us regarding a death we will guide them to Sinai Memorial Chapel a traditional Jewish mortuary. They will take care of the body and prepare it for burial according to Jewish tradition and the families’ needs. Unless burial plots have been purchased on a pre-need basis they will arrange for the purchase of plots and all funeral related needs.
Calling our synagogue at any time will allow the bereaved family to quickly reach a member of our clergy who will meet to comfort them and discuss funeral and mourning rituals. If a family chooses non-traditional options we will be happy to meet with them to discuss appropriate ways of memorializing their beloved departed.
When a family wishes to observe shivah in their home following the funeral a member of the clergy or a Temple volunteer will help lead evening prayers.
For a modern Reform Jewish guide to death and mourning rituals, go to reformjudaism.org
Directions to Oakmont Memorial Park or Gan Shalom Cemetery
Oakmont Memorial Park
2099 Reliez Valley Rd.
Lafayette, California 94549
Phone: (925) 935-3311
Fax: (925) 935-1221
From Temple Isaiah
Turn left at Mt. Diablo Blvd.
Turn left at Pleasant Hill Rd
Turn left at Reliez Valley Rd
Gan Shalom Cemetery
1100 Bear Creek Rd
Briones, CA 94553-9750
Phone: (925) 228-3636
From Temple Isaiah
Head northwest on Mt Diablo Blvd
Take the 1st right onto El Nido Ranch Rd
Turn right at Upper Happy Valley Rd
Turn left at Happy Valley Rd
Take the 1st right onto Bear Creek Rd