Finding the right words in the face of loss is one of the most difficult human challenges. When someone is grieving, expressing sympathy is a crucial act of compassion that expresses their pain and shows they are not alone.
A collection of thoughtful sympathy messages, meaningful quotes, and funeral sayings to help you express condolences with sincerity and grace.
Best Sympathy Messages
When words fail, a simple, sincere message can mean everything. Use these examples to convey your condolences with compassion and grace.
Short Sympathy Messages (quick and simple wording)
When you need to express your care quickly and sincerely, these brief messages are perfect for a text, card, or to say in person.
- Thinking of you.
- With love and sympathy.
- Wishing you peace.
- So sorry for your loss.
- My deepest condolences.
- Sending you strength.
- Praying for your family.
- Holding you in my heart.
- With caring thoughts.
- We are so sorry.
- Love and light to you.
- May you find comfort.
- Fondly remembering [Name].
- Gone but never forgotten.
- A life well lived.
- With heartfelt sympathy.
- Keeping you in our thoughts.
- In our prayers.
- Sharing in your sadness.
- Always here for you.
Heartfelt Sympathy Messages (longer, more personal)
These messages are perfect for when you want to express a deeper level of care and personal connection in a card or a note for sharing sympathy.
- I was so heartbroken to hear about [Name]’s passing. My thoughts are with you and your family during this incredibly difficult time.
- Please know that I am holding you close in my thoughts and hoping you are surrounded by strength and peace.
- There are no words to ease the pain, but I want you to know I am here for you with love and support, today and always.
- I am so deeply sorry for your loss. [Name] was a wonderful person and will be remembered with so much love.
- My deepest sympathies to you and your family. May the memories you shared bring you comfort in the days ahead.
- I am keeping you in my prayers as you navigate this profound loss. Your strength is an inspiration.
- Thinking of you and sending my love during this dark time. Do not hesitate to reach out for anything at all.
- I feel so lucky to have known [Name]. Their kindness and spirit will never be forgotten.
- Wishing you moments of peace and comfort as you remember your loved one. My heart is with you.
- I am sending you so much love and strength. I am just a phone call away if you need to talk or remember the good times.
Sympathy Messages for Family & Friends
When someone close to you is grieving, your words can offer a unique comfort. These messages are for those you have a personal bond with.
- My heart is absolutely breaking for you. I’m here for you, always.
- There are no words, just know I love you and I’m thinking of you every second.
- I’m sharing in your grief and remembering all the wonderful times we had with [Name].
- I’m here to help with anything you need, any time of day. Just say the word.
- I have so many cherished memories of [Name] that I will hold onto forever. Sending you all my strength.
- I wish I could take away your pain. Until I can, I’ll be here to help you through it.
- Thinking of you and your family non-stop. Sending you so much love and many hugs.
- [Name] was like family to me, too, and I will miss them deeply. I’m here if you want to talk about them.
- Don’t worry about anything on the outside world; just focus on healing. We can handle the rest.
- I loved [Name] so much. I am here to support you in any way you need, now and always.
- I have no words, just a heart that’s hurting for you. I love you and am here for you, always.
- Remembering [Name]’s wonderful spirit and the light they brought to everyone who knew them. I’m sharing in your sadness.
- I’m just a phone call away, for anything at all—day or night. You don’t have to go through this alone.
- Thinking of you with so much love and holding you close in my heart during this painful time.
- I’ll always treasure the memories we all shared together. Sending you strength and my deepest sympathy.
Sympathy Messages for Colleagues or Coworkers
These messages are respectful and supportive, acknowledging the loss while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
- I was so sorry to hear about your loss. My deepest sympathies to you and your family during this difficult time.
- Thinking of you and your family. Please don’t worry about work; we have everything covered.
- My heartfelt condolences to you. [Name] sounded like a wonderful person, and they will be greatly missed.
- I’m so sorry for your loss. Please know that we are all thinking of you and are here to support you.
- Wishing you peace and strength as you navigate this time. My sincere sympathies are with you and your loved ones.
- We were saddened to learn of your loss. The entire team is keeping you in our thoughts.
- My deepest condolences. Please accept my sympathy during this time of grieving.
- I am so sorry to hear this news. Sending you and your family thoughts of comfort.
- Please accept my sincere condolences. I am keeping you in my thoughts during this painful time.
- We are all thinking of you at the office and sending our support. Please take all the time you need.
Pet Sympathy Messages
Losing a pet is losing a member of the family. These messages aim to honor that special bond and offer comfort.
- I’m so sorry for the loss of your beloved [Pet’s Name]. They were so lucky to have you.
- Thinking of you and your sweet [Pet’s Name]. They brought so much joy to everyone.
- [Pet’s Name] was such a wonderful friend. I’m so sorry for your loss.
- Wishing you comfort and peace during this hard time. [Pet’s Name] was truly one of a kind.
- Run free over the rainbow bridge, [Pet’s Name]. You were so loved.
- Some of the best souls have paws. So sorry for your loss.
- Sending you love as you remember your faithful companion, [Pet’s Name].
- A loyal friend leaves paw prints on your heart forever. My deepest sympathies.
- I know how much you loved [Pet’s Name]. I’m so sorry you have to say goodbye.
- Thinking of you and the beautiful life you gave [Pet’s Name]. They will be dearly missed.
Best Condolence Messages
Thoughtful phrases to offer genuine comfort to someone who is grieving. Find the right words to offer comfort and support during a time of loss.
General Condolence Messages (Universal use)
When words feel inadequate, a simple and sincere message can offer profound comfort. These general condolences are respectful, warm, and appropriate for almost any situation, allowing you to express your sympathy with grace.
- Please accept my deepest condolences during this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
- I was so saddened to hear of your loss. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and your family.
- May you find comfort in the love that surrounds you and peace in the memories you hold dear.
- Thinking of you with sympathy and sending you strength during this time of sorrow.
- My thoughts are with you and your family as you navigate this profound loss.
- Wishing you peace and comfort as you grieve. My deepest sympathies are with you.
- I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that I am here for you if you need anything.
- Sending you love and light during this dark time. My sincerest condolences.
- With heartfelt sympathy and caring thoughts as you remember your loved one.
- May the outpouring of love from those around you provide some comfort during this painful time.
- My deepest sympathies on your loss. Wishing you moments of peace and comfort in the days ahead.
- I am holding you close in my thoughts and hoping you are doing okay. My sincerest condolences.
- May your heart find healing in time. Sending you strength and sympathy during this difficult period.
- With caring thoughts and deepest sympathy for your loss. You are not alone.
- Remembering a life well-lived and sending my condolences to you and your family.
Condolence Messages for Loss of Mother
The loss of a mother leaves a profound emptiness. These messages aim to honor her memory and offer comfort with the understanding of how special this relationship is.
- There is no one quite like a mother. I am so deeply sorry for your tremendous loss.
- Your mother was a truly remarkable woman. May her love and wonderful memories bring you comfort.
- A mother’s love lives on forever in our hearts. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
- I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your mom. She will be remembered with so much love.
- Thinking of you and the beautiful legacy of love your mother left behind. My heartfelt condolences.
- May the memory of your mother’s love surround you and give you peace during this painful time.
- I know how much you loved your mom. I am keeping you in my thoughts and sending you strength.
- There are no words for the loss of a mother. Please know I am here for you with love and support.
- Your mother’s kindness and spirit touched so many lives. She will be deeply missed.
- Wishing you peace and courage as you grieve the loss of your beloved mother. My sincerest sympathies.
Condolence Messages for Loss of Father
A father’s guidance and love are irreplaceable. These messages aim to honor his memory and offer support during this difficult time.
- I am so sorry for the loss of your father. He was a wonderful man and will be deeply missed.
- May the memory of your dad’s strength and love guide you through this difficult time. My deepest condolences.
- A father’s legacy is forever carried in those he loved. Thinking of you and your family.
- I was saddened to hear about your father’s passing. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
- Your father was such a strong and caring man. Wishing you peace and comfort as you remember him.
- There are no words to ease the pain of losing a father. I am here for you with love and support.
- May the lessons and love your father gave you bring you comfort now and always. My sincerest sympathy.
- Thinking of you and honoring the life of your dear father. He will be remembered with great respect.
- I am so sorry to hear about your dad. He was so proud of you and the person you are.
- Wishing you strength and peace as you grieve. Your father was a remarkable man and his memory will live on.
Condolence Messages for a Friend
When a friend is grieving, your words can be a powerful source of comfort. These messages come from a place of shared love and support.
- My heart is breaking for you. I’m here for you always, day or night. Just say the word.
- I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss. I love you and I’m thinking of you every moment.
- There are no words, just know I’m here to listen, to sit with you, or to help with anything you need.
- I’m sharing in your sadness and remembering [Name] with you. They were truly special.
- Your pain is my pain. Don’t hesitate to lean on me for anything at all.
- I have so many fond memories of [Name] that I will cherish forever. Sending you all my strength and love.
- I wish I could take your hurt away. Until I can, I’ll be right here by your side.
- Thinking of you non-stop and sending so much love. I’m just a phone call away.
- I’m here to handle whatever you need—meals, errands, just anything. You focus on taking care of you.
- I loved [Name] and I love you. I’m here to support you now and always.
Condolence Text Messages (short and mobile-friendly)
These brief messages are ideal for sending via SMS or instant messaging to let someone know you’re thinking of them.
- Thinking of you right now. So sorry for your loss.
- Sending you love and strength. 💙
- Just heard the news. My heart is with you.
- So sorry about your mom/dad. Here for you.
- No words, just love. Text me if you need anything.
- Thinking of you and your family.
- Sending my deepest condolences.
- So sad to hear this news. Love to you.
- Keeping you in my thoughts today.
- Here for you. Always.
Sympathy and Condolence Quotes
Words from poets, leaders, and authors that give voice to both the depth of grief and the hope for healing. These powerful quotes offer solace and extend condolences with grace when our own words feel insufficient.
Famous Sympathy Quotes
Sometimes, the most profound comfort comes from words that have stood the test of time. These famous quotes from poets, leaders, and authors can beautifully express the depths of sympathy and loss when our own words fail us.
- “What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.”
~ Helen Keller - “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”
~ A.A. Milne (Winnie-the-Pooh) - “Grief is the price we pay for love.” ~ Queen Elizabeth II
- “The song is ended, but the melody lingers on.” ~ Irving Berlin
- “Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.” ~ Inuit Proverb
- “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.” ~ From an Irish headstone
- “Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.” ~ Unknown
- “The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living.” ~ Marcus Tullius Cicero
- “While we are mourning the loss of our friend, others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil.” ~ John Taylor
- “If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together… there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart… I’ll always be with you.” ~ A.A. Milne
Comforting Words of Wisdom
These pieces of wisdom offer perspective, solace, and a gentle reminder that healing, in time, is possible.
- Grief is not a sign of weakness, but the price of deep love.
- You don’t have to be strong right now. It’s okay to not be okay.
- Lean on your memories for comfort, your loved ones for strength, and time for healing.
- There is no timeline for grief. Be patient and gentle with yourself.
- The pain you feel today is a measure of the love you shared.
- Sometimes the smallest step forward is the bravest one to take.
- You are not alone in your sorrow; we are here to share the burden.
- Healing doesn’t mean forgetting. It means carrying their memory with less pain and more peace.
- Allow yourself to feel whatever you need to feel. Every emotion is valid.
- May you find small moments of peace amidst the sorrow.
Quotes for Sympathy Cards
A carefully chosen quote can convey profound empathy and comfort in just a few lines, making it a perfect centerpiece for a sympathy card. These words offer solace and honor the memory of a loved one with grace.
- “Those we love never truly leave us.” – J.K. Rowling
- “Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.” – Inuit Proverb
- “What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” – Helen Keller
- “The song is ended, but the melody lingers on.” – Irving Berlin
- “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” – A.A. Milne
- “Grief is the last act of love we can give to those we loved. Where there is deep grief, there was great love.”
- “May memories comfort you and bring you peace.”
- “Holding you close in my thoughts and hoping you know how much I care.”
- “Words can’t wipe away your tears, but love can help you through the years.”
- “When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.”
Funeral Card and Flower Sayings
What to Write in a Sympathy Card
Knowing what to write in a sympathy card can feel overwhelming. The key is to speak from the heart, keep your message sincere, and focus on offering comfort and support. Here is a simple structure and examples to guide you.
A simple structure to follow:
- Acknowledge the loss by name.
- Express your sympathy plainly.
- Share a brief, positive memory or quality of the deceased (if you have one).
- Offer support or comfort.
- Close with a thoughtful sign-off.
How to Sign the Card:
- With deepest sympathy, The [Your Last Name] Family
- From: [Your Name] or [Your Family Name]
- From your coworkers at: [Company Name]
- With love, [Your Name]
Funeral Flower Card Messages
A floral tribute is a timeless way to express sympathy and honor the memory of a loved one. The accompanying card message should be brief, sincere, and respectful, offering comfort to the grieving family during a difficult time.
Short Sympathy Sayings for Cards
- With deepest sympathy during this time.
- Thinking of you with heartfelt care.
- With love and remembrance that lasts forever.
- Forever in our hearts and cherished memories.
- Loving thoughts are with you and your family.
- In loving memory of a beautiful life.
- Peacefully resting in eternal and gentle peace.
- Gone but never forgotten, always loved dearly.
- With heartfelt condolences for your profound and sad loss.
- Wishing you peace and comfort in the days ahead.
- With caring thoughts meant to comfort your grieving heart.
- Always remembered with so much love and fondness.
- With sympathy and love to you and your family.
- May you find comfort in precious memories shared.
- Holding you in our hearts with deepest compassion.
- In sorrow and sympathy, we stand beside you.
- With you in spirit during this difficult time.
- Cherished memories will live on forever and always.
- Sending you strength and love to help you through.
- Rest in peace and love, dearly beloved one.
Thank You Messages After Funeral
Sending a note of thanks after a funeral is a meaningful way to acknowledge the support and kindness shown to you and your family during a difficult time. While it can feel like a daunting task, a brief, sincere message is always appreciated.
- Thank you for your kindness and for being there for us. It meant more than you know.
- Your presence at the service was a great comfort to our family. Thank you.
- We are so grateful for your support and sympathy during this difficult time. Thank you.
- Thank you for your loving support and for sharing in [Name]’s memory with us.
- The beautiful flowers you sent were a touching tribute. Thank you for your thoughtful gesture.
- Thank you for your generous gift and for thinking of us during this time.
- Your kind donation in memory of [Name] was deeply appreciated. Thank you.
Funeral Thank You Cards
Sending a thank you card after a funeral is a heartfelt way to acknowledge the support and kindness received during a time of loss. A brief, sincere message is always appreciated.
- Keep the message short, sincere, and personal.
- Acknowledge the specific gift or act of kindness (flowers, donation, meal).
- Mention the name of the deceased if it feels natural.
- Thank people for their presence at the service or visitation.
- Recognize those who traveled a long distance to attend.
- Thank those who gave a eulogy or helped with the service.
- You do not need to detail your grief; focus on gratitude.
- It’s appropriate to send them weeks or even a few months after the funeral.
Appreciation Messages to Friends & Family
These messages are for your inner circle—the people whose support was a lifeline. They are warm, personal, and convey deep gratitude.
- I don’t know how we would have gotten through this without you. Thank you for being our rock.
- Your love and support have meant everything to us. Thank you for carrying us through this difficult time.
- We are endlessly grateful for you. Thank you for the meals, the hugs, and for just being there.
- In our time of sorrow, your friendship was our greatest comfort. Thank you for everything.
- Thank you for showing up for us, in every sense of the word. Your strength gave us strength.
- I will always remember your kindness during this chapter. Thank you for being such a wonderful friend.
- To our family—thank you for your unwavering love and for holding us together when we felt broken.
- You have no idea how much your support has helped. Thank you for being you.
- We felt your love every step of the way. Thank you for surrounding us with such compassion.
- I’m so grateful to have you in my life. Thank you for your incredible kindness and patience.
Closing Thoughts
While finding the right words can feel challenging, remember that the goal is not to erase the pain, but to acknowledge it with sincerity and compassion. A genuine message, however brief, is a powerful gesture that tells someone they are not alone in their sorrow. Remember, the most important thing is sincerity. If you’re looking for more examples of condolence messages on death, our guide can help.
We hope this collection of messages and quotes provides a starting point to express your condolences with grace. Do not underestimate the comfort your support can bring. In the end, it is our shared humanity and willingness to sit with another in their pain that becomes the greatest comfort of all.