What to Write in a Sympathy Card - Funeral
- Bruce Missen
- Aug 13
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Finding the right words for a sympathy card can be challenging. We often want to comfort a grieving friend or family member, yet worry about saying the wrong thing.
If you’re feeling unsure about how to write a condolence message, this guide offers practical tips, meaningful examples, and thoughtful ideas to help you express your compassion.
Why Send a Sympathy Card?
A sympathy card is more than just a note for a funeral— it’s a lasting gesture of love and support. Unlike a text or email, a physical card can be read and re-read whenever the grieving person needs comfort. It shows you’ve taken time to care, which can be deeply meaningful in difficult times.
Ways to Share Condolences
Here are some popular ways to send a condolence message:
With Flowers or a gift attached to a short but heartfelt sympathy note.
Inside a Card — Store-Bought or Handmade Many cards include pre-written verses, but adding your own message makes it personal.
Online through Social Media or Obituary Pages Digital condolences are common and can be shared through memorial websites.
In Person If writing is difficult, speak your words directly, but prepare them beforehand.
What to Write in a Sympathy Card
Whether you’re writing to a close friend, a colleague, or someone you don’t know well, here are sympathy message ideas for different situations.
Short Sympathy Messages for Flowers
“We hope these flowers bring beauty to the service your loved one deserves.”
“I remember [Name] always loved [type of flower].”
“May these flowers remind you that you are in our thoughts and prayers.”
Offering Help in Your Condolence Message
“I can’t take away your pain, but please know I can help with [specific offering].”
“You have so much to manage right now — I can take care of [specific offering] for as long as needed.”
“I’ll bring over a meal one night soon — let me know what works best.”
Personal, Heartfelt Sympathy Card Wording
“Your [relation] touched many lives with kindness and generosity.”
“I’ll always remember [Name]’s humour and warmth — especially the time [personal memory].”
“The funeral was a beautiful tribute to all [Name] contributed to the community.”
For Someone You Don’t Know Well
“Thinking of you and wishing you peace as you remember your dear friend.”
“Celebrating with you the remarkable life of [Name].”
Sympathy Card Closing Lines
Suggestions for a warm, respectful ending:
With love
With deepest condolences
Thinking of you
Wishing you peace
With all our love and support
Phrases to Avoid
Some phrases can unintentionally sound dismissive. Avoid:
“They’re in a better place.”
“It happened for a reason.”
“I know exactly how you feel.”
“At least…” statements such as “At least they lived a long life.”
Sample Sympathy Card Messages
Example: Close Friend
Dear Jennifer, I was heartbroken to hear of Jack’s passing. I will always remember his humour and his ability to light up a room. If you need help with the arrangements or looking after the children, I’m just a call away. With warm regards, The Richardson Family
Example: Acquaintance
Dear Victor, Please accept my deepest sympathies. While I didn’t know Peter well, I could see the joy he brought to your life. If there’s anything you need — from a meal to a listening ear — I’m here. With love and support, Simon
Example: Lost Child
Dear Samantha, Lucy was a bright, joyful soul who will be missed by so many. I’d be honoured to watch the children whenever you need rest. Remembering with you the beautiful life of your precious daughter. Lots of love, Julie
Thoughtful Gestures to Accompany a Sympathy Card
Home-cooked meal or comfort food
Flowers, plants, or a memorial candle
Charity donation in their name
Photo album or framed picture of the deceased
Flower seeds to plant in their memory
Final Thoughts
When writing in a sympathy card, the most important thing isn’t perfect wording — it’s sincerity. Speaking from the heart shows the grieving person they’re not alone, and that your care and support will be there for them in the weeks and months ahead. affordability. With thoughtful planning, you can have both.
