Jump to:
- How to Write a Personal Condolence Message
- What to Omit in Your Condolence Message
- Condolence Messages for Loss of a Parent
- Condolence Messages for Loss a Child
- Condolence Messages for Loss of a Sibling
- Condolence Messages for Loss of a Spouse
- Condolence Messages for Loss of a Friend
- Condolence Messages for a Colleague's Loss
It’s never easy dealing with the loss of a loved one. Grief is a natural part of life that everyone experiences at one point or another, and we'll need encouragement to live beyond the sorrow. If you’re searching for the right words to express your condolences to a family member, friend, or colleague, it’s never easy. Sending a message of sympathy is a delicate gesture that requires kindness and sensitivity, and nothing shows you're thinking about someone like writing a personal letter. Pull out the “good” pens and stationery to make an impactful mark. In the digital age, it's easy to quickly type condolence messages via text messaging or email. However, handwriting your message is a personal act that shows you care. Taking more time to add a personalized touch communicates a lot to our circle of friends.
Don't forget to follow up within two weeks with a phone call or text message. Consider dropping off a comforting casserole to the family if you know your way around the kitchen or send an UberEats gift card to cover dinner. Personally, I've experienced similar care packages that included gas cards, frozen casseroles, and lots of desserts when I lost my father several years ago. I still have a box with condolence cards and letters from my family and friends. I remember taking time to send thank you cards to everyone that checked on my family during that period. Every gesture meant more than we could ever put into words. While a text message is appreciated, I'm a firm believer in sending a condolence message that a person can hold.
How to Write a Personal Condolence Message
Regardless of who's dealing with a significant loss, you're sure to find a fitting message. Use our examples to create a personalized letter or card that also includes your words and personal memories. From the loss of a parent, spouse, child, extended family member, or a coworker, you'll find a way to strike a sincere and thoughtful tone for your condolence message.
What to Omit in Your Condolence Message
If you're planning to send a friend, family member, or colleague a condolence message in a card there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Don't use the time to offer comparisons to your own personal losses. Everyone experiences grief differently and it important to focus on comforting the person dealing with a death.
- Avoid offering expressions such as "your loved one is in a better place," or "they are no longer suffering." Grief does not lessen due to the circ*mstances (i.e. sickness, accident, etc.) and the message may sound insensitive regardless of your intentions.
Focus on writing a sincere message that will bring comfort during an emotionally sensitive time. It's pretty hard to make a misstep if you write from the heart and personalize your message!
Condolence Messages for Loss of a Parent
• Your dad’s love lives on within you.
• I cannot take away the pain from your loss but I hope my words give you some comfort.
• I may not have the right words but I am truly sorry for your loss.
• I am sorry for your loss. I hope you carry the beautiful memories of your father throughout your life.
• I am sorry about the loss of your mother and I'm here if you need anything.
• Your dad was a one-of-a-kind guy and will be missed.
• Your mother’s beautiful spirit will always be with you.
• Sending love and light to you during this season of loss. The rain may be falling but the sun will eventually shine its light on you.
• May you find joy, wisdom, and peace in the memories of your dad.
• I hope you look to the precious memories with your mom and find strength to live beyond this pain.
Condolence Messages for Loss a Child
• Being a parent is one of the most beautiful joys of life and you will always be the parent of an amazing child.
• Your daughter's memory lives on through you.
• I cannot take away the pain but I hope you find comfort in the memory of your son.
• Your child's love remains through it all. I am sorry for your loss.
• I'm so sorry about your loss and hope you can find a reason to smile one day.
• We never truly get over a loss like losing a child. I hope you know their love remains with you.
• Life is filled with challenging experiences and the loss of a child is one of toughest. I cannot imagine what you're going through but I'll be there if you need anything.
• You raised an amazing person who will live on through you and your loved ones.
• Nothing can replace your child but I hope you realize how lucky you were to have them.
Condolence Messages for Loss of a Sibling
• Losing a brother hurts but I hope you find the strength to carry their love with you forever.
• Remember the good times you shared while you were blessed to have them. I hope you find joy and peace with time.
• I hope your shared memories will bring you comfort in the days ahead.
• I can't imagine what your going through. Let me know if I can help in any way.
• Your sibling's spirit and love will always be with you.
• May the memories with your brother help lift you up during this time of sorrow.
• I hope your life is filled with all of the support and love needed to find a reason to smile about your sister.
• May you find joy and peace in the wonderful times you shared together.
• Although your pain seems unbearable, hold fast to the love, laughter, and moments you had with your sibling to get to a place of peace.
• The memories you share with your sibling will live inside you forever.
Condolence Messages for Loss of a Spouse
• I know your wife was a beautiful person–inside and out–and loved you immensely. Your bond with each other will never end.
• True love endures and your husband’s affection for you lives on through you and your children.
• The people we love and lose are always connected to our heart. May your loving connection help you to live on.
• Lean into the special moments with your beloved to carry you to the other side of grief. I hope those precious memories gives you the strength you need.
• There's no right way to grieve. Take all of the time you need and remember to let your friends help lighten the load along the way.
• I'm deeply saddened by your loss. May your husband's love carry you through this difficult time.
• Wishing you peace and comfort as you navigate life through this tremendous loss.
Condolence Messages for Loss of a Friend
• I’m thinking of you and your family and want to offer my deepest sympathies.
• Sending love and support during this difficult period.
• You have my deepest condolences and I’m here if you need anything.
• I'm sorry for your tremendous loss. Whether you need a hug, good laugh, or simply my presence, I'll be there.
• I love you and hope that you're surrounded by all the support you need to weather this storm. The sun will shine again.
• I know it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow but looking back at memories will help comfort you through the uncertainties of tomorrow.
• An old Irish saying proclaims death leaves pain no one can heal and love leaves a memory that no one can steal. Remember to keep your memories close to your heart.
• My thoughts and prayers are with you during this challenging time.
• You have my sincere condolences. Whether you need to talk, laugh, or just want the company of a friend, I’m here for you.
• May you find comfort and joy from the experiences you shared with your loved one.
Condolence Messages for a Colleague's Loss
• You have my deepest sympathies for your family's loss.
• Thinking of you and let me know if you need anything.
• I'm sad to hear about your loss and let me know if you need anything.
• I'm truly sorry for your loss.
• Thinking of you and hoping you find peace and a reason to smile about your loved one.
• I'm deeply saddened by your loss. May your loved one's memory carry you through this difficult time.
• Sorry for your loss and the team is here for you.
• You have my sincere sympathy. I'm sorry for your loss.
Janece Maze
Janece Maze is Associate Editor at Country Living, where she covers DIY projects, gardening, and travel. When she’s not in the kitchen creating a new recipe with farm fresh ingredients, you can find her on the road heading to a music festival or browsing a local consignment shop.
