Coping with the loss of a loved one is one of life’s greatest challenges. In moments of grief, it can be difficult to find the right words — what should you write on a condolence card or sympathy card?
Whether you’re looking for a short message of strength, a lighthearted condolence message, or a few words of sincere sympathy, you’ll find inspiration and examples below.
Let these carefully chosen sympathy texts and condolence examples help you express comfort, compassion, and strength.
Related: Funeral flowers | Sympathy flowers | Funeral wreaths
Below you will find inspiration for a short funeral text that you can use for a funeral speech, for example. These grief quotes can help to commemorate the loss of the deceased.
• Today we say goodbye to a special soul. The memory of [name] will forever be a source of inspiration.
• Although [name] has left this world, his/her kindness and compassion continues to shine brightly in our hearts.
• It is with deep respect and gratitude that we remember [name] and the positive influence she/he had on all of us.
• Though our paths part, the memory of [Name] will unite us in love and gratitude forever.
• In loving tribute to [Name], whose spirit will live on forever in the hearts of those she/he touched.
Below you will find kind wishes that you can use in your mourning message. These words of comfort during grief will let the relatives know that you are there for them. Your compassion will certainly be recognized with these beautiful farewell texts, for example on a funeral card.
• My heart aches for you. Please know that I am here for you no matter what.
• I can't imagine the pain you are feeling, but please remember that you are not alone. Lean on those who care about you, including me.
• Please know that I am praying for you, and I am here for you when you need a friend to lean on. [name]'s memory will always be cherished.
• My sincere condolences for the loss of [name]. Please know that I am here for you and my heart is with you during this difficult time.
• I want you to know that I am thinking of you and sending you love, strength and comfort during this difficult time.
Losing a loved one is always a difficult time, especially for the surviving relatives. You can show your condolences with a modern condolence card and a condolence message. Below you will find funeral texts for father/mother/child.
• Your father's presence will be greatly missed, but his spirit lives on in the love and cherished memories he leaves behind. Please accept my condolences and know that I am always here for you.
• I will always remember your father as a kind and loving man who cared deeply about his family. My condolences for your father.
• Your mother's memory will live on in the love and precious moments you shared. My sincere condolences and please know that I am here to support you in any way I can.
• My condolences on the loss of your mother. She was a remarkable woman whose warmth and love brightened the lives of those around her.
• The loss of your child is an unimaginable pain. I am always here for you in this time of grief, and I hope you can find some comfort in the precious memories you have of your beloved child.
• Losing a child is a pain no one should ever have to bear. My heart aches for you, and I offer my deepest condolences and support as you navigate this profound loss.
Show your condolences to the relatives with a condolence poem. You can also read a mourning poem at the funeral. A grief poem is a beautiful way to use last words for the deceased. Below you will find inspiration for a short mourning poem.
Gone from our sight,
But not from our hearts,
In your time of grief,
We'll never be apart.
Tears may flow like rain,
But know you're not alone,
In this time of loss and pain,
Friends and family are your home.
Though they've taken their final flight,
Their spirit remains by your side,
In the darkest of the night,
They're the stars in which to confide.
Wishing someone strength is a small but deeply meaningful gesture in times of loss. A few simple words can offer comfort and remind someone they are not alone. Whether you write “With deepest sympathy” or “Wishing you strength and courage”, it’s the thought behind the words that truly matters.
When offering strength and comfort after a loss, you can choose either a personal note or a general message of sympathy. Examples include:
• Wishing you much strength today and in the difficult days ahead.
• With heartfelt sympathy and compassion.
• Wishing you peace, love, and comfort in this time of sorrow.
• Sincere condolences on the loss of your loved one.
These words can provide support, even when you don’t quite know what to say. It’s often not the length of the message that matters most, but the genuine care it conveys.
Write a warm, sincere message. Begin with words like “With deepest sympathy” or “Thinking of you”. You may include a personal memory or a short message of strength. Keep it simple but heartfelt — your words can mean a lot.
Use words that express love and respect, such as “In loving memory” or “Forever in our hearts.” A sympathy message doesn’t need to be long — simplicity often carries the most meaning.
For sudden loss, choose a gentle, compassionate tone. Sentences like “Wishing you strength and comfort during this sudden loss” or “Words cannot express my sorrow” convey empathy without being too heavy.
Yes, a light condolence message can be comforting if it reflects the personality of the person who passed away. A positive memory or warm anecdote can bring light amid grief.
Close with simple, timeless phrases such as “With heartfelt sympathy,” “Wishing you strength,” or “Thinking of you.” These expressions remain sincere and comforting.