A place where those who grieve find comfort and solace became a place of celebration in October 2012, when more than 70 guests gathered to toast the grand opening of the NorthBay Bereavement Center.

Bryson Roatch, brother of Papa Roach lead singer Jacoby Shaddix, surprised the group with a sneak peek at a new video called, “Leader of the Broken Hearts,” which features several teenagers who use the NorthBay bereavement service. Bryson also surprised bereavement center benefactors Al and Patt Shaw with a guitar signed by his brother. The Shaws provided the space for the center at 1411 Oliver Road, Suite 220.

NorthBay started offering bereavement services 25 years ago, but they were scattered around the county in available spaces, including at schools and in doctors’ offices.