Condolence Letter Examples: Expressing Sympathy & Support

Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience. Finding the right words to express your sympathy and offer support to the family can be challenging. A well-written condolence letter can provide comfort and let the bereaved know they are not alone in their grief. The purpose of a condolence message is to offer support, share a positive memory if you have one, and avoid platitudes that might minimize their loss.

This article provides 10 sample condolence letters that you can adapt to suit your relationship with the deceased and their family. Remember to keep your message sincere, respectful, and focused on offering comfort during this difficult time. Tailor your words to reflect your unique connection and the personality of the person who has passed.

10 Sample Condolence Letters to the Family

1. Dear [Family Name],

   I was so deeply saddened to hear about the passing of [Deceased’s Name]. [He/She/They] was a truly wonderful person, and I will always remember [him/her/them] for [positive quality or memory]. My heart goes out to you all during this incredibly difficult time. Please accept my sincerest condolences.

   With deepest sympathy,

   [Your Name]

2. Dear [Family Name],

   I am so sorry to learn of [Deceased’s Name]’s passing. I have many fond memories of [him/her/them], especially [Specific memory]. [He/She/They] will be dearly missed. Please know that I am thinking of you and sending my love.

   Sincerely,

   [Your Name]

3. Dear [Name of grieving person],

   I was heartbroken to hear about the loss of your [Relationship to deceased]. [Deceased’s Name] was such a [Positive adjective] person, and I will always cherish the memory of [Specific shared experience]. I am here for you if you need anything at all.

   Thinking of you,

   [Your Name]

4. Dear [Family Name],

   Words cannot express the sadness I feel upon hearing of [Deceased’s Name]’s passing. [He/She/They] touched so many lives with [his/her/their] [Positive quality]. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of grief.

   With heartfelt sympathy,

   [Your Name]

5. Dear [Name of grieving person],

   I am so very sorry for your loss. [Deceased’s Name] was a remarkable person, and I feel privileged to have known [him/her/them]. Please accept my deepest condolences and know that I am thinking of you and your family.

   With love and sympathy,

   [Your Name]

6. Dear [Family Name],

   We were deeply saddened to learn of [Deceased’s Name]’s passing. [He/She/They] was a kind and generous person, and [he/she/they] will be greatly missed by all who knew [him/her/them]. Please accept our sincere condolences.

   With deepest sympathy,

   [Your Names]

7. Dear [Name of grieving person],

   I am sending you my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your [Relationship to deceased]. I will always remember [Deceased’s Name] for [Positive memory]. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

   Thinking of you,

   [Your Name]

8. Dear [Family Name],

   We are so sorry for your loss. [Deceased’s Name] was a truly special person, and we will always cherish the memories we have of [him/her/them]. Our hearts go out to you during this difficult time.

   With sincere sympathy,

   [Your Names]

9. Dear [Name of grieving person],

   I was so saddened to hear about the passing of your [Relationship to deceased]. [Deceased’s Name] was a wonderful person and always [Positive trait]. I’m sending my love and support your way. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything at all.

   Warmly,

   [Your Name]

10. Dear [Family Name],

    Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of [Deceased’s Name]. I know that no words can truly ease the pain you are feeling right now, but I hope you find some comfort in knowing that others are thinking of you and sending their love. [He/She/They] will never be forgotten.

    With heartfelt sympathy,

    [Your Name]