Grief is a very difficult emotion to process, and nothing hits home harder than losing family. More often than not, your family is what keeps you grounded, stable, and safe in the most uncertain times. Most people also get their meaning in life out of responsibility towards their family and the love they receive from them.
Writing a card for someone who has lost an irreplaceable part of themselves is no easy task. There’s no shame in getting some help expressing yourself. Here are 15 ideas for what to say in a sympathy card to let your friend know you share their grief.
5 Tips For Writing Your Sympathy Card
Here are some writing tips that will make your sympathy card more meaningful to your friend.
#1. Choose the right type of card, one that matches your friend’s level of grief and personality. It shows that you put thought into the card and that you’re there for them.
#2. Personalize your thoughts and be yourself. Do not try to sound charitable or formal.
#3. Offer some form of specific support like helping them get groceries for a few weeks or helping out with the kids.
#4. Show sensitivity towards your friend. If they don’t believe in god or an afterlife, do not try to pacify them with prayers, or any verbiage that falls outside their beliefs. On the other hand, if prayer is something your friend deeply believes in, offer your prayers.
#5. All deaths are difficult. It’s not your fault if you don’t have something long to say. Keep it real and short.
Sympathy Messages For Loss Of Mother
Losing a parent is one of the hardest deaths to recover from. Here are some ideas for what you could say to someone who has recently lost their beloved mother.
#1. Your mom was one of the greatest human beings on this planet, and I’m blessed to have a friend raised by her. My sincerest condolences. I’m here for you, whatever you need.
#2. I know what it’s like to realize you’re never going to hear from her or see her again, but I promise you, you’re not alone. I’ve been through the same hell and I promise to help see you out of it in any way I can.
#3. We are so sorry for your loss, Albert. Knowing you, it’s hard to imagine your mother being anything short of a remarkable human being. Please stay strong, and know that you and your family are in our hearts.
Sympathy Messages For Loss Of Father
Parting with one’s dad is a devastating experience that needs no elaboration. Remember, sensitivity is of the utmost importance.
#4. I was shocked and devastated to hear about your father’s passing. I hope you find closure and manage to come out of this stronger. My warmest condolences and hugs. Please let me know if there’s ever anything I can do.
#5. I’m not sure what to say in the face of such a difficult loss, John. I just want you to know that me and my family are with you and share your sadness. Stay strong, and let us know if you need help with anything.
#6. I know it’s been a long time since we last connected. Hearing about your father passing brought a tear to my eye. I just wanted you to know that I feel your loss, and wish you endless strength and fortitude in the days that lie ahead.
Sympathy Messages For Loss Of Husband
Divorce is not the worst tragedy to break a marriage. Sympathy cards for someone who has just lost their significant other should be focused on letting them know they’re not alone.
#7. Your husband was someone I looked up to and respected. I’m terribly sorry for your loss, and pray you find some closure. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.
#8. I am so sorry to hear about your husband. Please let us know if we can contribute to the funeral in any way. We’re here for you.
#9. We just learned about your late husband and want you to know that you are not alone. Our entire family will be at your side to offer strength, support, and labor wherever needed.
Sympathy Messages For Loss Of Wife
Losing a wife is like losing a leg for a man. Don’t be too careful with the words and let your heart flow freely. At times like these, the most comfort you can offer is letting your friend know you feel the full depth of their loss.
#10. Words cannot describe what losing the love of your life does to a man, so I won’t try to console you as much as I wish I could. But I believe in your strength, as did your wife. Just let me know if there’s anything I can help you with. I’m here for you.
#11. Your wife was an incredible woman. I wish I could’ve been there to spend more time with the two of you. Please accept my family’s sincerest condolences and prayers.
#12. We were devastated to hear about the passing of your wife. She was a lovely person, and we consider ourselves fortunate to have known her. Please accept our condolences, prayers, and wishes, Mark. Hope you find the strength to recover from this.
Sympathy Messages For Loss Of A Child
There are hardly words for a tragedy of this magnitude. No one will blame you for keeping it short. Make sure you offer help, regardless of who it is.
#13. What happened to you is something I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. I want to be there at your side if you will let me. Please stay strong and know that you have my full support during your time of suffering.
#14. Hearing about your daughter’s passing was devastating to me and my wife. She was way too good for this world. We’re coming back to town earlier than planned. Please let us know if you need any assistance with funeral arrangements.
#15. There are no words to console you from what just happened, so instead, please accept my love, prayers, and helping hands to get you through this difficult time.
