11+ Funeral Condolence and Sympathy Message Templates
While thoughtful, writing a sympathy note or condolence can feel daunting. You may still be navigating your own emotions, making them even more difficult to express to someone else. You may also worry that you’ll say the wrong thing.
Here are some templates that you may want to use as a guide, but at the end of the day, remember that you know better than anyone what makes sense for you to say.
Looking to say more with flowers?
Send sympathy flowers
When you knew the deceased and their family
Template #1
Dear [Name],
I wanted to let you know how much you all are in my thoughts. I’ve been thinking about [Deceased Name] a lot. I keep thinking back on [a memory]. I’ll always remember how [personality traits] [she/he] was.
My condolences,
[Your Name]
Template #2
Dear [Name],
I’m thinking of you all, as I think about how much I miss [Deceased Name]. Can I come by and help with [a specific task]?
My condolences,
[Your Name]
Template #3
[Name],
I wanted to let you know that I've been thinking about you and yours during this difficult time. [Deceased name]'s loss is deeply felt. [He/she] was a remarkable [man/woman/person] and an unforgettable soul. Please know that [he/she] will always be remembered and loved.
My deepest sympathy,
[Your Name]
Template #4
[Name],
You have been in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. [Deceased name] was such an important person to those around [him/her] and their absence is deeply felt. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me for anything at any time, I am more than available to help.
My love,
[Your Name]
When you knew the deceased, but not their family
Template #1
Dear [Name],
I’m a [your relationship to the deceased] of [Deceased Name]. I first met [him/her] [describe the circumstances]. Over time, I really grew to appreciate [things you enjoyed about him/her].
I want you to know that you’re in my thoughts.
My sincere condolences,
[Your Name]
Template #2
Dear [Name],
I’m so sorry for you loss.
I’m a [your relationship to the deceased] of [Deceased Name]. I’ve known [Deceased Name] since [describe the circumstances or time when you met].
One of my favorite memories of [Deceased Name] was [a story]. Here’s a photo from that day: [attach photo].
I’m thinking of you during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template #3
Dear [Name],
I wanted to reach out and let you know how truly saddened I am by the loss of [Deceased Name]. We’ve been [your relationship to the deceased] for [length of time you knew the deceased], and it’s so hard to accept that [he/she] is gone.
Please know that you are in my thoughts.
My condolences,
[Your Name]
When a friend suffers a loss
Template #1
Dear [Name],
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of [Deceased Name]. Know that I am here for you if you want to talk -- or just sit in silence. Can I [come by/give you a call] on [day] at [time]?
Much love,
[Your Name]
Template #2
Dear [Name],
I want to let you know that I’m thinking about you and here for you. Can I help with [a specific favor that you’d like to do]?
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template #3
[Name],
I want to let you know that you are in my thoughts and in my prayers constantly. I am so sorry for your loss. I know this is an incredibly difficult time, but I want you to know that I am here for you. How would you feel about me [description of favor]? Let me know.
My condolences,
[Your Name]
When an extended family member suffers a loss
Template #1
Dear [Name],
I just heard about [Deceased Name]’s passing and wanted to extend my deepest condolences. I’m thinking of you and am here for you if you need anything.
With love,
[Your Name]
Template #2
Dear [Name],
I was so sorry hear about [Deceased Name] and wanted to send you my love and support. Know that you’re in my thoughts.
Love,
[Your Name]
Template #3
[Name],
I was so incredibly saddened to hear about [Deceased Name]'s passing and just wanted you to know that I'm thinking about you. You and yours are in my daily prayers during this difficult time. I am always here for you.
Love,
[Your Name]
When a coworker suffers a loss
Template #1
Dear [Name],
I just heard about [Deceased Name] and wanted to send you my sincerest condolences. Please let me know how I can help support you and ease your workload during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template #2
Dear [Name],
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of [Deceased Name]. Please know that my thoughts are with you. If it would be helpful, I’d like to [something specific you can do to make their job easier]. Just let me know how else I can be supportive.
My condolences,
[Your Name]
Looking to say more with flowers?
Send sympathy flowers
