Condolence Messages: Empathetic and Supportive Ways to Show You Care

Writing condolence messages is never an easy task. Finding the right words to say — and avoiding the wrong ones — can be difficult to navigate. You want to acknowledge the person’s loss while also tactfully and empathetically addressing the grieving family. 

While there’s not one specific thing you can say to make things better, sending a few words of support goes a long way in letting the grieving person know you care and that they’re surrounded by love. Here, we’ll offer some ideas on how to express your support while being sensitive along with condolence messages you can write in your sympathy card.

Condolence Messages to Share With Loved Ones and Friends

Whether your best friend lost a parent, a colleague is going through the loss of a child, or a family member lost a close friend, sending words of comfort can help during this tough time. These condolence messages for friends, family members, and coworkers remind people they’re not alone and that they have a support system if they need to reach out.

Here are a few condolence messages to share with a grieving person:

• Sending my deepest sympathy for the loss of your loved one. Please know that I’m always a phone call away and am happy to support you in any way I can.
• My deepest condolences for your loss. Thinking of you and your family.
• Dear friend, I hope your happy memories are a source of comfort during this sorrowful time. You had many wonderful years together filled with joy, adventure, and laughter. May his soul rest in peace and his presence surround you with love each and every day.
• Kathy, I was so sorry to hear about Richard’s passing. He was a wonderful man and I have many loving memories of him telling stories I’ll remember forever. Sending all of my love and sympathy to the entire family during this trying time.
• Dear Lupe, My family is sending heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. In your time of need, please know we are here to help in any way we can. 
• I heard the heartbreaking news and just couldn’t believe it was true. Leila was a wonderful person and I remember her fondly. Sending you my sincerest condolences during this time of grief.
• Sending sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy during your time of grief. Please know we are thinking of you during this hard time. May she rest in peace.
• I can’t think of the right words to say during this painful time. I’m so sorry for your loss and want you to know I’ll be here. Sending my sincere sympathy and best wishes to the entire family.
• It’s hard to put into words how much Xavier meant to me. I will forever cherish our memories and the time we spent together. I know he’ll be with me for the rest of my life. Sending you all the love during this time of loss. I hope you find some solace in knowing how much of an impact he left on those of us who were lucky enough to know him.
• Sending all of our love during this sad time. We loved Cynthia dearly, she was an amazing person with a beautiful soul. May God grant you peace and watch over your family.
• I have fond memories of Uncle John fishing at the lake house, racing box cars, and biking through the park. Most of my childhood was filled with his laughter and joy. I hope these happy memories bring you some peace during this time of sorrow and please know that I am here for you in any way you need. 

Tips for Being Sensitive and Supportive During the Grieving Process

Everyone grieves differently. There isn’t one right thing to say when someone passes away. The most important thing is to show that you care and offer assistance, and then let the grieving person dictate how to move forward. Here are some tips for how to handle this sensitive time.

Consider the Relationship

Sending sympathy messages is always hard, whether you’re sending a card to a colleague, best friend, or family member. It’s important to keep in mind your relationship with the person when writing wishes. For instance, a sympathy card for a coworker will be more formal than one you send to your best friend.

Always err on the side of formality when writing these types of cards — the last thing you want to do is upset someone already grieving. Offer support when appropriate and match the tone of the card to your recipient.

If the person is religious, include a Bible verse that may be comforting. If they are a coworker or acquaintance, send a short condolence message rather than a lengthy essay. For closer friends and family members, you can share a special memory of the loved one who passed away. 

Choose How to Reach Out

Traditionally, condolences and sympathy notes were sent by mail. Today, you can express condolences by sending a hand-written note or a digital card, making a phone call, posting on social media, or sending text messages. 

Whatever method you pick, choose your words wisely. Offer support and share your sorrow without invading their space or focusing on yourself.

Avoid Cliches and Inappropriate Questions

Condolence etiquette focuses as much on what not to say as it does on what you should say. Avoid cliches like “I know how you feel” and “It was for the best.” While many people think these phrases help or offer empathy, they’re off-putting and can even be offensive. 

It’s also inappropriate to ask for details surrounding the death and family matters. Be careful making religious references unless you know the family practices and are certain they would appreciate the reference.

Focus on offering support and sharing positive memories of the person’s impact on your life. If you’re able, offer to bring food to the family (or have it delivered), handle paperwork, and do household chores that may be overwhelming during this difficult time. It’s also nice to follow up during the coming weeks and months as the grieving process is never really over.

Pick an Empathetic Condolence Card

During this challenging time, sending a condolence card can bring some comfort to the grieving family. It’s easy to choose an online sympathy card from Greenvelope. Whether you’re sending it to a family member or colleague, a digital card can be an ideal way to reach out to the grieving family without being too intrusive. Here are a few condolence cards you can personalize with your own message and design elements.

1. Floral Sentiments Card

Design: Signature Greenvelope

Offer comfort with this floral condolence car that features a large bouquet of colorful flowers. The card tucked into the flowers is entirely customizable so you can write a message like “Thinking of you” or “Sorry for your loss.”

2. Virtual Hug Card

Design: Signature Greenvelope

Bring a little joy to someone’s day with this cheerful sympathy card featuring a gold foil heart. The supported backside offers space to include a joyful memory or sweet words of sympathy to a grieving friend or loved one.

3. Peaceful Poppies Card

Design: Signature Greenvelope

This serene sympathy card lets someone know you’re thinking of them during their time of grief. Add a short and sweet sympathetic card message in the text box and send it to a colleague, acquaintance, or family friend. 

Send Sympathetic Wishes and Let Them Know You Care

Losing someone is always difficult, but getting condolence messages from friends and family can offer comfort. If someone you know is going through a tough time, choose a condolence card from Greenvelope and add your own sympathetic thoughts. Once you’re ready, hit send to deliver the message instantly to their email inbox or via text. It’s just one small but thoughtful way to show someone you care during such a trying time.