Finding The Right Words

Finding the right words to express a Condolence Message or write on a Sympathy Card isn’t easy.  I am often asked for some tips so I have gathered some examples together which I hope you can use as a guide and tailor them to your needs. Hopefully they help spark some inspiration! Don’t forget sending a card or calling will always be appreciated at the time of a loved one’s passing but don’t forget that offering ongoing support in the weeks and months following the loss is vitally important particularly if the loss was sudden or unexpected.  Touching base at times like the deceased’s birthday, a wedding anniversary or Christmas will be appreciated as these occasions can heighten levels of grief.

  • What a great, generous and warm man your father was.  I thought his funeral service was a wonderful tribute to him and all that he has contributed to our local community. He will be missed by his many friends.
  • We/I are/am saddened by the news of Tom’s passing.  Our/My thoughts and prayers are with with you and your family.
  • When we lose someone close they never truly leave us, for they are still alive in our hearts and minds, through us, they live on.  Please accept our condolences, Helen will never be forgotten.
  • In remembering Marcus I will never forget the memorable times we spent together, his strength and courage was such an inspiration to us all.  Rest in peace. 
  • My deepest sympathy to all the family. Belinda was such a lovely person who will be missed by all. Holding you close in my thoughts and hoping you are doing OK.
  • Donald was one of the finest true gentlemen you could ever meet. He touched our hearts with all his support and love that he gave us. We have fond memories and laughter of all the good times shared and I will cherish these forever. 
  • Your Mum was an incredible lady, and I feel privileged to have known her.  I know that you will miss her enormously. I’ll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers as you adjust to life without her.
  • We will always cherish the moments we shared with Shane.  These special times will never be forgotten. I’ll call to see when would be a good night to bring over a meal.
  • Your Mum was an incredible inspiration and blessed so many people with her faith and acts of kindness.  Praying that you will find comfort in your memories of her and in the knowledge that we are all here to support you in any way we can.
  • We will always cherish the memories and moments shared with Caroline. Never forgotten, always remembered.
  • Michael truly was my best friend, someone I could confide in.  He was always there for me when I needed a listening ear and for that I will always be grateful. I’ll always cherish the fun times we shared.
  • Charlie was a wonderful man who had so much charisma and warmth.  We will all miss his presence at family gatherings.
  • Prayers and fond memories are what we have to remember Brian by.  May the love of family and friends comfort you at this time.
  • I/We wish to extend our most heartfelt condolences to you and all the family.  I/We was sorry to hear of your loss and you are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.
  • Please accept our/my condolences, just know that we are here to support you, so please don’t hesitate to reach out at any stage.
  • Elizabeth was a great contributor to our local community and we will all miss her greatly.  Our heartfelt condolences to you and all the family.
  • I was saddened to learn of the passing of your dear Dad.  It was a pleasure to have known him.  All of your friends are thinking of you at this sad time.
  • Losing Jackson must have come as a shock and we wish to pass on our condolences.  We all have fond memories of him and what a wonderful life he has lived.
  • Nicole was always there for me and showered me with love and affection. Although now gone she has left this earth and taken flight but she is still with me each morning, noon and night.
  • Kelly truly was my best friend, someone I could really rely on.  Her bright outlook on life will be something I miss together with her friendship.  It was a privilege to have called Kelly a friend.
  • Sam was the Brother that I never had.  We had a connection that went deep and one that I am going to miss every day.  I know he will be looking down on us and supporting us every step of the way through life’s challenges and triumphs. 
  • Thomas was one of life’s true gentlemen, we only have treasured memories. A life well lived RIP.
  • I will always treasure the friendship I had with Belinda. Her gifts of love, nurturing and friendship I will treasure in my heart forever. 
  • It was an honour having Carmel as part of our family.  We will love and miss her everyday. We have so many beautiful memories to keep in our hearts.
  • I was saddened to learn of the passing of your dear Mum.  It was a pleasure to have known Heather. A life well lived. Our family is keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers at this time.
  • Luke was a special and dear friend.  We had some wonderful times, with lots of laughs and he could always make me smile.  Thinking of you all. Sending a big hug to everyone.
  • We hope your family may find peace amidst this time of bereavement and reflect not only Bill’s passing but upon his wonderful life. A more caring person you will never find.
  • Nana was a special person in my life.  She shaped the crucial years of not just me but so many others.  I will miss our chats and shared cuppas.  You are a special lady Nanna and I will never forget you.
  • Paul was such a bright light and ball of energy and my heart aches for you as you deal with your loss, but so thankful for our risen Saviour who has given eternal life.
  • At this sad time we wanted to touch base and reach out and let you know that we are here to support you in any way we can.  Louise was an inspiration to everyone that had come in contact her. I hope you feel surrounded by much love.
  • I was saddened to hear that your grandfather passed away.  My thoughts are with you and all of your family. 
  • Justin was a wonderful family man, colleague and friend to many.  He will not only be missed by you his family but those of us who were privileged to call him a friend. You are in our thoughts. 
  • I know this must be a very difficult time for you all.  We are keeping you in our thoughts. If there is absolutely anything we can do please let us know.  I will give you a call next week to arrange a catch up.