Address the person to whom you’re writing as you’d normally address that person. If you’re writing to a teacher you normally call “Ms. Frankel,” address her that way in the card. If you’re writing to someone you know well, using the person’s first name is appropriate. If the card is meant to express sympathy to an entire family, and not just one person, write each person’s name out. If you don’t know the names of everyone in the family, you could write “Sarah and family. "
I am so sorry that Miles has passed away after his long battle with cancer. I am deeply grieved to hear of Margaret’s passing. Words can’t express how sorry I am that June is gone.
You are in my thoughts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are thinking of you. I’m praying for you during this difficult time. We will honor the memory of [deceased] during this time of sorrow. [Deceased] will always be in our thoughts.
With caring thoughts, With loving memories, With love, With deepest sympathy, With heartfelt condolences, Our sincere sympathy,
Dear Steve, We were incredibly sorry to hear that Joan passed away. She was a kind, caring friend who always made time for other people, and we loved her. Her students will remember her as a devoted teacher and wonderful role model. If you need help running errands, keeping the house in order, or anything at all, please don’t hesitate to call us. We love you and are thinking of you. With deepest sympathy, Marcia and Luke Dear Mary Ann and Juan, it’s impossible to express how sorry we are that your beautiful daughter has passed away after her struggle. What a brave, joyful child she was. We will miss her every day. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your two sons. If there is anything we can do, please call us. With love, Hayden and Dwayne
Dear Molly, I am so sorry to hear that your father passed away. Though I never got the chance to meet him, I know how much everyone at St. Paul’s admired his volunteer work. How wonderful that you were able to spend so much time with him in his final days. Please call me if you need anything or just want to talk. I’m thinking of you. With sympathy, Jim Dear Victor, I was very sad to hear the news about your brother Hector. I know how close the two of you were. If there’s anything I can do to help, please don’t hesitate to call. Warmest condolences, Alicia
Dear Lucia, I’m very sorry that Shadow has passed away. I remember when you first adopted him 13 years ago. What a wonderful companion he was. Our walks won’t be the same without him trotting by your side. With love and hugs, Jules Bobby, I heard the news about your sweet Birdie. She was such a special cat. It’s hard to believe she won’t be romping around the garden next spring like she always loved to do when the weather started warming up. Thinking of you, Jordan
Don’t express condolences over text message. If you do express condolences over social media or by other means, send a card, too.
For example, saying “I know he’s in heaven now” may not be appropriate, because the person may not believe in heaven. However, if you and the person are members of the same religious group, it’s perfectly fine to write a note taking that into account.
Express your remorse for that person. Let the person know that you are there to support them. Acknowledge their loss and show that you sympathize with them.
