My Condolences
Writing condolence messages is never enjoyable. Finding the right words to convey sympathy can be challenging and emotional.
While you want to express your condolences for their loss and grief, you also don’t want to be insensitive. If you didn’t know the deceased personally, it might be tough. To help you find the right words for someone grieving the loss of a loved one, your messages should show your sympathy while remaining respectful and encouraging.
Share your heartfelt condolences with them to let them know they’re not alone and that you’re thinking of them, whether it’s a friend who has recently lost a spouse or even a coworker.
What To Say To Someone Who Lost a Loved One
When a family member dies within the immediate family, it is a devastating loss. You may be at a loss for words to express your grief. You may believe that giving them some space is the best course of action at this point.
Your condolences may be felt long after everyone else has moved on. Here are some message ideas:
1.) I was very sad when I learned about Uncle Bill’s passing. He was so exemplary and gave me so much inspiration. I want you to know I’m here to support you during this trying time. Please let me know how I can help.
2.) I’ve heard the news, my friend. I want you to know that even though I have no idea how you feel, I am still here for you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
3.) Sorry for your loss. How are you doing? I’m here if you ever need to talk.
4.) I feel helpless; I’m sorry I cannot make things better for you. I’m so sorry for your loss.
5.) Hey, I heard about your father. I’m here for you to feel heard and supported.
6.) My condolences for your loss, my dear. Please know I’m thinking of you and sending many hugs your way.
My Condolences to the Family
7.) Your mother will be missed greatly. Folks show grief in various ways – however, you feel it is justifiable. Please take your time to process your loss.
8.) We lost one of the all-time bests. I’ll be praying for you and the family.
9.) The Lord is your strength, my dear; I promise you will come out on the other side of this.
10.) Take heart, my friend; you have a personal angel watching over you from above.
11.) Your sister meant so much to me. I think back fondly to our time at the university. She could light up a room with her presence, and her kindness knew no bounds. I’ll miss her greatly. Please find strength in your treasured memories of your sister.
See Sincere Sympathy Card Messages.
Sorry For Your Loss Messages
Messages like this should have nothing short of a soothing effect on the bereaved and their family. The message, however brief it may be, should be able to give a sliver of hope amidst their grief and, although temporarily, try to fill the void in their heart.
12.) I’m thinking of you and your family as you honor the life of a person who impacted so many lives. She’ll be missed by all.
13.) I pray the fond memories of your brother will give you comfort, courage, and peace during this difficult time.
14.) I’ll never forget how much your sister loved and trusted you. She thought the world of you! If you ever want to talk, I’m available.
15.) Words cannot express how heartbroken we are to learn of your loss. Please take your time. We’re all here for you. Please accept my deepest condolences to you and your family.
16.) Please accept my sincere condolences. I’m thinking of you during this time of sorrow.
17.) Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I’d love to get together soon over coffee and talk when things settle. Please let me know a convenient time when you’re ready.
18.) I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing your mother, but she must have been an impressive woman because she raised a fantastic person: you. I wish you peace during this time.
19.) You have inherited your father’s wonderful personality. You have my love during this difficult time.
20.) Your mother is the only one like her in the world. She was a one-of-a-kind person, and I will remember her forever.
21.) I’ll never forget your father’s invaluable lessons; he was a true inspiration in my life.
See Sympathy Card Writing Tips.
My Deepest Condolences
22.) Words fall short when expressing our heartfelt sorrow for your loss. I’ll be including you and your family in my prayers.
23.) May you savor the priceless moments and take solace in knowing that your father raised you as a remarkable person—my condolences on your loss.
24.) A mother’s love is eternal. Hold on to that unending love and allow it to be your light.
25.) I will always cherish my wonderful memories of your grandfather. He will be sorely missed.
Loss of Spouse Messages
26.) I’ve heard your wife was a remarkable woman. What wonderful memories you must have. I hope those memories help you remember how much joy she brought into your life.
27.) I firmly believe that when we lose someone close to us, such as your husband, they continue to live on through us and give us incredible strength. They are so inextricably linked to us that they become a part of us forever. May he rest in peace.
28.) Love lasts forever. Your wife’s love for you endures forever.
My Condolences for Your Loss
29.) Your husband was a wonderful man. Although he is gone from sight, we’ll never forget the kindness and care he showed everyone in the office.
30.) I can’t express how sorry I am for your wife’s death. Although I did not know her, I am here for you because I know how much you loved her.
31.) I can tell your husband was wonderful because you spoke so highly of him with pride. My heart goes out to you in your time of sorrow. I’m sending you lots of hugs.
32.) Working with your wife was a true honor and privilege. She was a wise and considerate lady. She should never be forgotten.
33.) I’ll always be amazed by the love you and your husband shared; you two had an unbreakable bond.
34.) My deepest condolences on the loss of your dear spouse. Nobody else’s couple complimented each other as well as you did. I hope your priceless memories bring you comfort.
35.) I was deeply saddened to learn of your dear wife’s death. She was always considerate and kind, and she will be greatly missed.
36.) Your mother was a one-of-a-kind. She will live on in our hearts forever.
37.) Don will always be remembered as someone who shared much of his life with you. Relationships like yours last forever. Please accept my deepest condolences.
Short Condolences
38.) I was broken to hear about your loved one’s passing away. My prayers are with you and the family.
39.) Reminiscing on your mother’s extraordinary life and praying for your comfort in this time of trial.
40.) It was more than awesome to work with your father. He will be dearly missed.
41.) Keeping you all in my heart as you celebrate your sibling’s beautiful life.
42.) Keeping you in my thoughts as you celebrate your father’s remarkable life.
43.) We are missing him/her along with you. Please accept our heartfelt sympathy.
44.) Wishing you peace and comfort as you remember your friend; I’m sorry for your loss.
45.) Our household is keeping yours in our hearts and prayers.
46.) Keeping you in my heart and praying you are doing well.
47.) There may be joy in the eternal but sorrow basks in your loss. Thinking of you at this tender time.
My Condolences for Your Loss
It is only fair to express your deepest condolences; you should be aware that it is one of the most formal ways to express your support for them in their trying time.
A short expression of reassurance here, a promise that everything will be okay there, can go a long way in soothing the pain of the bereaved.
When choosing a condolence message, consider your relationship with the deceased person’s son or daughter, father or mother, and even siblings, depending on who passed on.
For parents of a loved one
48.) My deepest condolences; your father was a remarkable man. I want you to know that he impacted the lives of everyone he came across, myself included. May God see you through.
49.) I will miss (insert father’s name here) dearly but not as much as you. The lessons he taught will live on through every one of us. Please accept my deepest condolences.
50.) I’m sorry for your loss; your father’s passing cannot be easy—my deepest condolences during your trying time.
51.) Only a mother’s love can rival God’s; I’m so sorry you had to lose your mom. My deepest condolences go to you and your family.
52.) I’m so sorry to hear about your mother’s death; she was beautiful inside and out. My deepest condolences; if you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to reach out.
53.) I cannot imagine the pain you must be going through; your mother’s passing came as a surprise to us all. I pray for strength, hope, and sustenance for you and your family.
54.) My deepest condolences for your father’s death. He always found a way to light up every room at any family event, and I will miss him so much. You and your family are on my mind constantly.
55.) Your mother was always there for me growing up. I’ll never forget how she listened to and cared for everyone in the family. My deepest condolences; I will miss her greatly, and I will send you thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
For siblings
56.) Your brother took care of us like we were his own; I’m so sorry for your loss. Please accept my deepest condolences.
57.) God gives, and God takes; I don’t know what to say; my deepest condolences for your sister’s death; know that I’m here for you.
58.) Please accept my deepest condolences; your brother’s death must be hard for you. Please reach out whenever.
59.) You are heartbroken by the loss of your sister, and that’s fine. I will bring over a (insert heartfelt gift here) for you to share with the rest of your family tonight. I love you!
For parents who’ve lost a child
60.) Words aren’t enough to fully explain how sorry I am to hear about your loss.
61.) My deepest condolences for the passing of your son. Would it be okay if I called or texted to check in with you later? May I bring by some dinner for you tonight?
62.) Your daughter had such a vibrant spirit and will be missed by everyone. My deepest condolences now; know that I am here for you if you want to talk. I love you.
63.) Words can’t describe how unfair this is. Your son had such an innocent soul; I am here for you whenever.
64.) Your daughter was extraordinary, and I feel so blessed to have known her. Accept my deepest condolences; you’re loved, you’re seen, and your feelings are valid.
Send My Condolences
65.) Someone as unique as Jack can never be forgotten. We send our love and prayers from California, wishing we could be at your side. Please know we’re thinking of you.
66.) We learned of your father’s passing with great sadness. He was a great man who we always thought of in the best possible light. We’re sending our love in hopes you’ll be able to find some comfort.
65.) Although your mother’s illness stretched over many years, there’s just no preparing anyone for the death of a loved one. I pray you’ll be able to find comfort during this difficult time, and I send you all my love.
68.) There are no goodbyes for your sister and me. She will forever be in my heart and thoughts. Her friendship meant a lot to me. I am sending you peace and love.
Short Condolence Messages
69.) They say that all we love deeply becomes part of us. That’s a comforting thought for me, and I hope for you—my sincere condolences for the loss of your grandmother.
70.) My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. I was honored to have known your father for over 40 years. An exceptional man and a servant of God!
71.) Your mother touched so many lives in a lovely way. I’m grateful to have counted her among my friends. Please accept my deep condolences.
72.) Wishing you comfort and strength during this challenging time. My condolences.
73.) An exceptional person like your mother leaves a trail of beautiful memories. Undoubtedly, you were a part of so many of those. I am sorry for your loss and sending you my love.
Religious Words of Condolence
74.) We pray that God’s infinite love will surround you during your time of need. Your father was a great man and will be missed dearly by many. May he rest in peace.
75.) May you and your family find healing, comfort, and love in God’s infinite grace. We send prayers of healing. “And God shall wipe away tears from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away.” (Deuteronomy 1:31)
76.) Please accept our deepest sympathies as you mourn the loss of a great lady. Please take comfort that you’ll be reunited at the right time in the kingdom of heaven. May you feel the warmth of sunshine as you progress in your journey.
77.) The Light of the World will grant His grace and mercy to you in your time of need. Our deepest condolences on your loss. May our Lord comfort you and all of your loved ones.
Religious Condolences
78.) Please know that the Lord is with you always. If there’s any way we can help, please let me know. I’m planning on stopping by next Wednesday – if that works for you – to talk.
79.) May God’s love comfort you now in your time of need. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” And may your loving memories help find you peace.
80.) May God strengthen you and all your family. Please accept my condolences for your loss in this tough time of your life. May God comfort you in your time of grief.
81.) A sunset on Earth is a sunrise in heaven. May her soul rest in peace. Sending our love and prayers.
82.) May God’s grace bring comfort and healing in this time of sorrow.
83.) In times of trouble, the Lord walks with us hand in hand. Let Him be your guide. We are praying for you and sending our love.
Sympathy Quotes
Consider including one of these condolence quotes as part of your message in a sympathy card or note.
84.) To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.
Thomas Campbell
85.) Earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.
Thomas Moore
86.) When you lose someone you love, you gain an angel you know.
Unknown
87.) He that conceals his grief finds no remedy for it.
Turkish Proverb
88.) It’s the great mystery of human life that old grief passes gradually into quiet, tender joy.
Fyodor Dostoevsky, The Brothers Karamazov
89.) If I can stop one heart from breaking, I shall not live in vain; If I can ease one life the aching, Or cool one pain, Or help one fainting robin Unto his nest again, I shall not live in vain.
Emily Dickinson
90.) What we have once enjoyed, we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.
Helen Keller
91.) Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.
Unknown
My Condolences Quotations
92.) Grief is the price we pay for love.
Queen Elizabeth II
93.) They are not dead who live in the hearts they leave behind.
Tuscarora
94.) When sorrows come, they come not single spies but in battalions.
William Shakespeare
95.) When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.
Unknown
96.) He spoke well who said that graves are the footprints of angels.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
97.) A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.
Maya Angelou
Sorry for Your Loss Sayings
98.) While we are mourning the loss of our friend, others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil.
John Taylor
99.) Each departed friend is a magnet that attracts us to the next world.
Jean-Paul Richter
100.) Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow.
Robert Louis Stevenson
101.) Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.
Renee Wood
102.) No person is ever truly alone. Those who live no more, whom we loved, Echo still within our thoughts, our words, our hearts.
Unknown
103.) I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought, and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.
Leo Buscaglia
104.) When you are sorrowful, look again in your heart, and you shall see that, in truth, you are weeping for that which has been your delight.
Kahlil Gibran
105.) Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality.
Emily Dickinson
See more heartfelt sympathy quotes.
My Condolences Meaning
“My condolences” is an expression communicated to friends, family members, or acquaintances who have experienced the loss of a loved one. It means showing sympathy for the painful feelings one might be experiencing from losing a loved one.
Relative to many other expressions of sympathy, e.g., “I am sorry for your loss,” my condolences is considered more formal.
“Condolences” is formed from the Latin root “condoleo,” which means “I sympathize,” from “con,” which means “together or with,” and doleo, which means “I hurt, suffer, have pain.”
My condolences used in a sentence: My condolences for the loss of your father.
What To Say In a Sympathy Card
Before you start writing your heartfelt condolences in a sympathy card, here are a few things to consider.
A.) Maintain your privacy: A genuine handwritten note can mean a great deal to someone going through a difficult time.
B.) Offer to help: Make a point to offer assistance; bereaved people frequently have a lot on their plates and will appreciate any service you can provide.
C.) Acknowledge the demise openly: When you say something like “I’m so devastated to hear the news,” it may appear that you are avoiding the subject entirely, but you may find yourself skirting the issue to avoid saying the wrong thing.
D.) Celebrate the life you shared: You can lace your message with careful jokes that show the deceased in a loving light; that way, you can leave the bereaved with a smile, no matter how little.
E.) Please refrain from offering advice: Even if you mean well, including advice on how to deal with grief in your sympathy card is not a good idea.
F.) The timeliness of your condolences is important. Express your sympathy at the funeral or service and in a card or note. As a general guideline, you should try to reach out within two weeks of a death. A card, a note, a visit, or a phone call all work. If you’re finding it hard to reach a bereaved person, try sending a note or a text.
My Condolences in Spanish
The expression “my condolences” translates into Spanish to “Mis condolencias.”
Another option to express sympathy is “Te/Le a acompaño en el sentimiento,” which translates in English to “My deepest sympathy.” If the person is a relative or friend, you will use the “te.” If the person who suffered the loss of a loved one is elderly, you will use the “le” instead.
FAQ For Condolences
Here are some frequently asked questions about my condolences.
Please accept my sincere condolences. I’m thinking of you during this time of sorrow.
An exceptional person like your mother leaves a trail of beautiful memories. Undoubtedly, you were a part of so many of those. I am sorry for your loss and sending you my love.
The expression “my condolences” translates into Spanish to “Mis condolencias.”
Etiquette suggests you should express your sympathy within two weeks of a death. However, generally speaking, it’s never too late to send a sympathy card or note.
Final Thoughts on Expressing Condolences
Always be genuine and share a personal story or anecdote. Just be careful not to write anything that might be upsetting or misunderstood.
Your words should celebrate life rather than draw attention to death. Let the recipients know that you care and are thinking of them. Express condolences with empathy and understanding. It will mean a lot to the people receiving the message.
By Anne Matea and Mike O’Halloran
Anne is an avid traveler with a passion for all things chocolate and words. As a mother of an 8-year-old daughter, she gets to travel and eat chocolate less and less but finds pleasure in inspiring others with her words. Mike is the founder and editor of Greeting Card Poet.
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