What to write in a sympathy card

Writing a card to someone who is grieving the loss of a loved one can be incredibly difficult. And you’re not alone if you are struggling to know just what to write in a sympathy card. Whether you’re looking for a bereavement card message for family or simple sympathy card messages for a friend, we’ve pulled together a list of ideas.

Struggling to pick out the right card? Here’s a peek at the lovely artwork and messaging you can find in our range of sympathy cards:

Annie Moon

Fox Card Co

Louise Tiler

Sundiva Designs

Fox Card Co

Duckduckle Design

Cloud Cuckoo Design

Kalm Lettering

The Girl Next Draw

What to say in a sympathy card

Having to put pen to paper and find the words for a sympathy card can be difficult, and thinking of the right things to include isn’t easy. That’s why we’ve created a list of what to say in a sympathy card and what to be conscious of when you’re writing your condolences:

  1. Offer gentle support

Offering your support is something that will mean a lot to someone who’s grieving. They may not take you up on your offer, but it will certainly be appreciated. Whether it’s just a shoulder to cry on, or an offer to help them with their shopping or housework, anything can lighten the heavy load that they’ll be carrying.

  2. Avoid strong advice

It’s completely understandable to want to offer advice, especially if you’ve experienced something similar yourself. However, everyone grieves differently, so what helped you may not feel right for someone else. Sometimes, simply letting them know you’re thinking of them and are there if they need support can mean the most.

  3. Acknowledge their loss

With such a sensitive subject, it can be easy to avoid saying what’s actually happened. You’re more than okay to acknowledge that someone has passed away when you’re sending a sympathy card, as it doesn’t then feel like you’re avoiding anything. 

Simple sympathy card messages

The phrase “less is more” is a popular one for a reason, and if someone close to you has faced a big loss in their life, they’re going to appreciate a message no matter how small (or big) it is. So, if you’re looking for a sympathy card message that’s short and simple, here are a few ideas.

1. Sending you all of our love and strength.
2. Thinking of you at this sad time.
3. Keeping you in our thoughts during this time of sorrow.
4. We are with you in your sorrow, wishing you peace and comfort.
5. Sending heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy.
6. So sorry for your loss. Sending love and hugs.
7. Never forgotten, always remembered.
8. My heart goes out to you at this difficult time.
9. May all your memories bring you peace at this sorrowful time.
10. Keeping you in our hearts as we share in your sadness.

Thoughtful words for a sympathy card

If someone close to you has lost someone they love, a thoughtful message can go a long way in letting them know they’re in your thoughts. Whether it’s a simple “I love you” or a three-line, heartfelt paragraph, their spirits will be lifted when they receive your loving condolences.

We’ve put our heads together, coming up with a variety of thoughtful things to write in a sympathy card: 

1. So sorry to hear your sad news. You’re in my thoughts and my heart in the days ahead, and I’m here for you should you need me for anything.
2. It might not be much, but I hope my condolences can help bring you strength in the difficult days ahead.
3. Please know that we are thinking of you as you grieve, and we are honouring the memory of one so loved as [name of deceased].
4. I am deeply saddened to hear of [name of deceased]’s passing and want to send you all my love and sympathies for your loss.
5. At such a sad time, I hope that your memories provide some comfort, along with the thoughts and prayers of all of us who love you.
6. Thinking of you after the sad loss of [name of deceased]. We are with you in mourning, and here for you should you need anything at all at this difficult time.
7. I’m shocked and saddened to hear of [name of deceased]’s passing and want you to know you are at the forefront of my thoughts in the difficult days ahead.
8. Sending you all of our love, and hoping that peace and memories bring you comfort as you find the courage to face the days ahead.
9. As we mourn [name of deceased]’s passing with you, we are celebrating a great life and cherishing the memories that we hope will bring you strength in dark times.
10. Please accept our deepest condolences after the passing of [name of deceased]. You and your family are uppermost in our thoughts as you come to terms with such a sad loss.

Our beautiful illustrated sympathy cards pair perfectly with the above messages.

Sympathy messages for loss of spouse or partner

Perhaps someone you know has recently lost their partner, and you want to show them you’re there for them 100%? Here are ten compassionate bereavement card messages you can send to friends, loved ones, and anyone else in your life.

1. I loved [insert name] so much – he was my best friend, but I can’t imagine what you’re going through right now as his partner. Just know he loved you dearly, and remember that when you’re reminded of this terrible loss.
2. Losing the person you love the most in this world must be so hard. But I have every faith you can get through this loss in time. Please just remember to take every day one step at a time.
3. Your wife was your life, I know that – and she truly was the greatest. I’ll be thinking about you both as I sip a glass of her favourite wine tonight, please do the same. Cheers to her brilliance, may we cherish it forever.
4. I was thinking about all the funny things (and sayings) you and [insert name] used to say to each other when we’d pop next door for a cuppa, and it really made me smile. I hope you can think about the memories together and hold them close during this difficult time.
5. I know I never knew your husband personally, but the way you spoke about him at work made me gush with happiness for you both. Long may that continue, please look after yourself.
6. What a loss, but what a life they had. You’ll be together in another life, and while you’re still in this one – know I’m here for you whenever you need a friend.
7. I can’t express how sorry I am that you’ve lost your precious partner. I’ve lit a candle as I’m writing this to remember her by, maybe do the same as you’re reading this? We’re all in this together, I love you.
8. Yours was and is the type of love that doesn’t ever waver and whilst he/she isn’t here in person, their memory will never fade.
9. Nothing will ever be able to change the bond that you shared with him/her and although it may not seem possible at the moment, the pain will begin to ease over time.
10. My heart truly broke when I heard the news, your wife/husband was an inspiration to us all in so many ways.

Sympathy messages for loss of mother

Wondering what to write in a sympathy card for someone who’s sadly lost their mum? While it can be hard to find the right words, here are some kind and caring suggestions:

1. I’m so sorry I’m even writing this, and sympathy messages won’t do this gigantic loss justice. But I’m so sorry for your loss. Your mum will always be the greatest.
2. Your mum was a cut above the rest – and so are you. Know I’m here for you every step of the way.
3. Your mum was so special, she is so special, and she’ll always be so special. My greatest condolences now and forever.
4. Sending you a cuddle in the post because you need it. I’m sorry this had to happen to your mum, but we’ll get through this together.
5. As we look back on your marvellous mum, we can think about all the joy she brought you – and us all. Love you millions.
6. Mate, I’m sorry this has happened to your wonderful mum – I know it’s going to be hard, but I’ll be by your side through it all. Promise.
7. Thinking of you and your family at this tough time – sending all my love, always.
8. Mums are one of a kind and words can’t come close to describing what you must be feeling like. I just want you to know that I’m sending all my best to you and am so sorry for your loss.
9. Please accept my sincerest condolences for the loss of your mum, she really was an exceptional lady and will be missed by so many.
10. When I think of your mum so many wonderful things come to mind. You’re so strong and I’m here for you whatever you need.

Sympathy card messages for loss of father

It’s no secret that deciding what to write in a sympathy card is tough, especially if someone you love has just lost their dad. The most important thing you can do is show you’re thinking of them – and by sending them one of our loving sympathy cards, you’re off to a good start.

1. Please remember all the good times you had with your pops. He was a shining star and so are you. Sending my best wishes.
2. The man, the myth, the legend – your dad. So sorry this card had to even be sent, but you’re in my thoughts. Love you.
3. I’m so sorry to hear your dad has passed away, he was truly special… Sending all of the love I can give.
4. You’ve got this – I know it won’t feel like it right now, but every day will get a little bit easier. And if it doesn’t, that’s okay – I’m just a phone call away.
5. Please remember all the good memories your dad brought to your life, he always was the star of the show – and he still is!
6. Your dad was one in a million. I’m so sorry for your loss and I’ll do anything in my power to make you feel better. You name it, I’ll do it!
7. What a guy your dad was – he’d be so proud of you, don’t forget that. Thinking of you pal.
8. I’m so sorry to hear about your dad’s passing. He will be greatly missed. My favourite memory involving him has to be when [insert memory].
9. Sending all the thoughts and prayers from our family to yours, your dad was a true gentleman who cared for everyone.
10. Your dad really did live life to the fullest and I count myself lucky that I got to know him, please accept my sincerest condolences.

Sympathy card words for loss of a child

If you know someone experiencing the loss of a child, you might want to reach out but aren’t sure where to begin. Whether you’re offering comfort messages following a miscarriage or supporting someone following the loss of a child, it’s a particularly sensitive subject. So, we’ve come up with a few suggestions that might help you figure out what to say.

1. No parent should ever experience the loss of a child, my heart breaks for you and I’m sending all my love your way.
2. Your son/daughter will be deeply missed, they brought happiness to so many people.
3. Losing a child is heartbreaking and I can’t even begin to understand what you’re feeling but I wanted to let you know that I’m always here for you.
4. He/she was truly one of a kind and I feel blessed to have known them.
5. I’ll always remember when your son/daughter [insert memory]. They’ll be dearly missed by all of us.
6. Your son/daughter really did light up a room and we’ll always remember her/his contagious laughter.
7. I am sending you all the love during this time, she/he will never be forgotten and the bond between you two will always be there.
8. I’m so sorry for your loss, he/she was taken too soon. We’re sending love, strength, and support to you and your family.
9. He/she made an impact on so many people in so little time. One time I’ll never forget is when [insert memory].
10. Your son/daughter will always hold a special place in my heart, all my thoughts and wishes are with you and your family.

Grandparent bereavement card messages 

Grandparents fill our lives with love, wisdom, and endless stories, making losing one an incredibly difficult time. So, if you know someone who’s recently lost their grandma or grandad, make sure to let them know you’re thinking of them with one of the following sympathy card messages: 

1. I’m so sorry for your loss. Your grandad was truly one of a kind and left a lasting impression on everyone he met.  
2. She taught you so much and loved you so deeply. Your lovely grandma will always be by your side. 
3. I know how close you were to your grandma/grandad, and I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss.  
4. If you ever want to talk or share stories about your grandma, I’m always here to listen. What a wonderful woman she was. 
5. Thinking of you and sending you love as you say goodbye to someone who meant so much.  
6. I’ll always remember the way your grandpa lit up every room. Thinking of you today and always. 
7. Sending you love as you honour the life of your fabulous nan. 
8. Grandmothers are gifts that never stop giving. 
9. Wise, kind, and full of love, they were certainly one of a kind. 
10. They’ll always hold a special place in your heart. I’m deeply sorry for your loss.

Sympathy card messages for the loss of a sibling

Siblings can be one of the closest family members, especially if they’re similar in age. Regardless, they’re an impactful loss to anybody. So if you know someone in this situation, here is what you could write to help them through this difficult time:

1. Thinking of you during this incredibly difficult time. Losing a sibling leaves a space that no one else can fill – please know I’m here for you.
2. No words can ease the pain you’re going through but just know you’re in my thoughts. I’m so sorry for your loss.
3. Your sibling will always be a part of you. Wishing you comfort, healing, and gentle days ahead.
4. Your brother/sister was such a brilliant person to have met. I hope you can take comfort in knowing what a great character they were.
5. I’m holding you in my thoughts and sending heartfelt condolences. Please know that I’m always here to support you.
6. I hope that you can find some peace in the many memories that you shared. I’m really sorry that you’re going through this.
7. Sending you strength and love as you work through this heartbreaking loss. The bond you shared with your sibling will never be lost.
8. Bonds with siblings are lifelong and unbreakable. 
9. The memory of your sibling will live on in the memories, love, and stories you carry with you.
10. Words can’t change what happened but just know that you have people who will support you and care about you during this time.

What to write on a sympathy card for losing a colleague

Sometimes the person someone loses isn’t a member of the family, but instead is someone who they work with. Whether they were close or not, it’s someone they likely saw regularly, so here are a few ways to word your sympathies:

1. I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve lost a colleague. Thinking of you and everyone affected through this difficult time.
2. Wishing you strength and comfort as you remember your colleague and their contribution.
3. Your colleague will always be remembered for everything they brought to the team and everyone around them.
4. Please know that you aren’t alone. Wishing you support and strength at this time.
5. Losses in the workplace can be deeply felt. You and your team have my deepest sympathies.
6. Saying goodbye to someone you worked with closely is never easy – thinking of you.
7. Remembering your colleague with respect and sympathy.
8. Losing someone you worked alongside isn’t easy. You’re in my thoughts.
9. I know how much your colleague brought to the workplace. They will not be forgotten.
10. Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of your colleague. They will be greatly missed.

Loss of a pet sympathy card messages

A time comes when someone in your life loses a pet, and that pet is their absolute world. Whether they’ve had to say goodbye to their cute kitten, humble hound, little hamster or their age-old tortoise, sending sympathy messages their way will massively help them. So, here are some sincere words for a sympathy card:

1. Thinking of you after the loss of the best cat in the world. She’ll be missed by so many people, that’s for sure. Love you.
2. Sending all my love your way as you’re mourning the loss of such a fantastic fur baby. Here for you always.
3. Losing a pet is so hard, so please call me whenever you’re feeling down to relive the memories of him pinching our food wherever we were sat!
4. Our pets have such a big influence on our lives, so please know that we’re thinking of you during this tough time.
5. When you’re feeling sad, just remember when your little furball would whizz around his hamster wheel without a care in the world – the funny little guy.
6. I know your pup was your world, so things might feel a little heavy right now. But please know I’m here whenever you need me (for a rant, cry or photo album scroll)!
7. Pets are brilliant little buggers, so I can’t express how sorry I am that you’ve had to deal with this huge loss. Lots of love to you during this time.
8. I’m sorry for your loss. The bond that you create with a pet really is like no other, and I know how special he/she was to you.
9. [Insert pet name] was such a good boy/girl and will always be in your heart. Sending you and your family all the love during this difficult time.
10. I’ve got so many great memories of you and [insert pet name], please know that I’m thinking of you and am always here if you need to talk or feel like sharing fun stories.

How to end a sympathy card

A thoughtful sign-off can offer a final touch of support, love, and care, reminding them that you’re always there, whenever they might need you. With this in mind, here are a few ideas on how to end a sympathy card:

1. Here for you always.
2. With love and support.
3. Forever by your side.
4. You’re never alone (I’m just a quick call away).
5. With all the love in the world.
6. Sending hugs and strength.
7. With deepest sympathy.
8. With heartfelt condolences. 
9.  Love you always.
10. You’re in my thoughts.

Thinking of the right words to write in a sympathy card is never easy, but showing support to the loved ones in your life can be really helpful – especially when they’re going through such a difficult period. And we hope we’ve made the writing process a little easier for you as you send a heartfelt card their way.

For more help with difficult topics, you can browse the thortful blog and discover articles on other types of cards that can be tough to write. We’ve pulled together some heavenly birthday wishes to honour those no longer with us. 

If you don’t feel that a card is enough, or if you think it may help ease their pain, sending a present is also an option during this tough time. We have a whole collection of gifts that are appropriate for times like these, including plants, flowers, and chocolates.