200+ Best Condolence Messages for Loss, Grief & Sympathy

Sam Tetrault, BA in English

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Sam Tetrault, BA in English

Find the right condolence message to send to a friend, relative, colleague, or another loved one during their time of loss.

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Like all things in life, grief is never one-size-fits-all. Even though you know reaching out to offer sympathy is the right thing to do, you also know your words alone can’t take away someone else’s pain . Still, it’s important to support our loved ones in any way we can .

After a loss, it’s hard to find the right words to say. We want to offer comfort, kindness, empathy, and compassion but struggle to capture these emotions in short notes or conversations . Whether you’re signing a sympathy card or calling a friend, sometimes you need help finding the right tone .

In this guide, we’ll share the 200+ best condolence messages for loss, grief, and sympathy. We hope these short messages help you share your heart with someone in need . Grief is one of life’s biggest challenges, and it’s a burden best weathered with those you trust.

Tip: If your family member or friend has set up a memorial page or fundraiser , that can be a wonderful place to share a condolence message and offer support. You can even consider helping your loved one create a memorial page or fundraiser if they haven't done so already.

Jump ahead to these sections:

Loss of Mother Condolence Messages

Condolence message for loss of a mother

A mother is a trusted friend from the start , and this type of loss leaves a heartache that’s hard to capture . Mothers are a form of support, kindness, and love. Console those who lost a mother with one of these messages.

Loss of Father Condolence Messages

A father is one of life’s first friends. Losing a father is one of the most difficult things anyone can go through. This bond is everlasting , even after death. The words below offer comfort in a time of darkness.

Loss of Grandparent Condolence Messages

A grandparent or great-grandparent is a reassuring presence in anyone’s life. Reaching out after this loss is the best way to be there for your loved one. Though they no longer have their grandma or grandpa in their life, they can still feel supported through these messages.

Loss of Sibling Condolence Messages

Condolence message for loss of a sister

Our siblings are our closest companions and playmates from the earliest days. This type of loss is profoundly painful, and it takes ongoing compassion.

Loss of a Partner or Spouse Condolence Messages

To lose a partner or spouse is to lose a part of yourself and your shared future . This is an extraordinarily difficult time. While you can’t possibly comprehend this devastating loss, you can be there for them.

Loss of a Friend or Best Friend Condolence Messages

Losing a friend can be unexpected, and it’s hard to fill this void in your life. Coming to terms with never seeing them again feels isolating , especially if the loss was sudden. These words are a tender lifeline .

Loss of a Child Condolence Messages

No parent wants to imagine the pain of losing a child. While no words can ease this pain, it’s important to show support in any way you can.

Loss of Aunt or Uncle Condolence Messages

In many cases, an aunt or uncle feels like a second parent to us — and this powerful bond doesn’t go away after death. Use these condolence messages to support someone after losing an aunt or uncle.

Loss of Cousin Condolence Messages

Like a sibling, a cousin is usually part of your earliest memories. Some cousins are closer than friends, creating a powerful relationship that spans a lifetime. Send someone warm wishes after losing a cousin with these powerful condolence messages.

Pregnancy Loss Condolence Messages

Condolence message for pregnancy loss

Pregnancy loss is difficult to discuss , but it’s important parents get enough support . Because these losses are often only shared with small groups of people, take this opportunity to really be there with your words.

Loss of a Loved One to Suicide Condolence Messages

Given the stigma around suicide , it’s often challenging to choose the right words after this type of loss. Offering comfort, kindness, and support is always the right choice.

Loss of a Loved One to Addiction Condolence Messages

Another type of loss that’s often surrounded by taboo is the loss of a loved one to addiction . Offering support after this type of death can be complicated — but you shouldn’t stay quiet. Here are some condolence messages to be there for someone in need.

Loss of Cat, Dog, or Other Pet Condolence Messages

A beloved pet is a member of the family. If your loved one lost a cat, dog, or another pet, honor this loss with comforting words . By acknowledging and validating their pain, you ease the burden of their grief.

Condolence Messages to an Entire Family

Condolence message for a family

It’s common to send condolence messages to the whole family, but this can make it confusing to know what to say. These messages are ideal to send to an entire family, offering much-needed comfort.

Formal or Professional Condolence Messages

Loss in the workplace can be tricky to navigate, but you still want to show support. These messages are more formal, making them appropriate for workplace situations.

Death Anniversary Condolence Messages

On the anniversary of a loved one’s death, it’s helpful to hear words of encouragement. After all of this time, the pain of grief can resurface . Be there for your loved one during a death anniversary with these caring messages .

‘My Deepest Condolences’ Messages

A common form of sympathy is to say ‘my deepest condolences.’ These messages below build on that sentiment, offering authentic compassion.

Religious Condolence Messages

For those who practice a specific religion, honoring the presence of a higher power or an afterlife is a source of peace. These religious messages are a reminder that you’re never alone.

Condolence Text Message Ideas

If you’re texting a condolence message , you can still offer your genuine words. These short and sweet messages fit any text, email, or DM.

Condolence Messages for Illness

Whether someone lost a loved one to a serious illness or received a challenging diagnosis, be there with your words. These well-wishes are a source of comfort.

Short Condolence Messages for Flowers

Here are some appropriately concise condolence messages to send with flowers .

Sudden Loss Condolence Messages

All losses are difficult, and there’s no way to compare grief. However, an unexpected loss can completely upend your world, spinning everything upside down. If your loved one is experiencing a sudden loss, show them compassion with these condolence messages .

Famous Condolence Quotes and Sayings

Sometimes it’s helpful to use a powerful quote that perfectly captures your feelings. One of these famous condolence quotes might be right for you.

‘Rest in Peace’ Condolence Messages

Confronting your emotions after a loss is hard , but supporting others can be its own challenge. These rest-in-peace condolence messages can provide comfort.

Social Media Condolence Messages

If you’re supporting someone through a death announcement or sharing your feelings on social media, these condolence messages are a powerful way to connect with others going through the same thing .

Condolence Message to Pair with a Gift

A condolence gift is a great way to show support through a physical gesture, but you need the right message behind it. Here are some ideas.

Thank You for Your Condolence Messages

If someone sends you condolence messages or gifts, make sure they feel heard. Repay their kindness with one of these thank-you messages .

Tips for Writing Condolences Messages

Writing condolences can be intimidating, especially if you haven’t done it before . Here are some pointers to help you craft the right message.

When should you send a condolence message?

You should send your condolence message as soon as possible after someone experiences a loss. This should typically be sent before or shortly after the funeral. That being said, there is no deadline.

No matter how much time has passed, you can always send a condolence message. In fact, you can send this message on the anniversary of the death or years from now to let them know you’re thinking of them.

Is there anything you should avoid saying when sending a condolence message?

When you send a condolence message, you should be mindful of your language. Avoid using phrases like “they’re in a better place” or “you’ll get over this.”

In addition, don’t compare their experience to your own grief. Everyone handles loss differently, so make sure they know you’re focusing on them .

What should you include in a condolence letter?

Your condolence letter doesn’t need to be complicated. Including a short greeting, a kind message, and well-wishes is plenty . You might also want to share a special memory of the deceased, a photo, flowers, or other sympathy gift idea . However, this is optional .

What should you include in professional condolence messages to clients, bosses, or coworkers?

In a professional condolence message, keep things short and simple. You can talk about how much their loved one meant to them, but avoid any empty sentiments. Sending a small sympathy gift , like flowers, is a thoughtful idea.

When should you send a gift with a condolence message?

You’re never required to send a gift with a condolence message. That said, it’s a good idea if you’re particularly close to the deceased or their family or you’re unable to attend the funeral. Flowers are the most common sympathy gift.

Where to Share Your Message

There are many ways to share words of support and show we care.

  1. Reach out via text or instant message: Send a brief message to let them know you're thinking of them and offer your support. Inquire about how they're doing, extend help if they need it, and remind them you're here to listen.
  2. Make a phone call: A personal phone call is an excellent way to offer support and demonstrate that you care. Take the time to inquire about their well-being, offer words of encouragement, and listen to their thoughts.
  3. Use social media: Social media can be an effective way to publicly show support to someone. You can post a message of encouragement on their wall, tag them in a supportive post, or simply comment on their recent activity.
  4. Offer support on a memorial page: If someone has recently lost a loved one, you can offer your support and condolences on a memorial page. Share a memory or a thoughtful message that shows you care. If it's a Cake memorial page, they may have also set up a fundraiser where you can help cover the costs of funeral expenses or support a cause in the person's honor.
  5. Show up in person: If possible, offer support in person. Sometimes a simple gesture like a hug or being there to listen can make a significant difference.
  6. Send a card or care package: Include a handwritten note, small gifts or treats, or anything else that might brighten their day and remind them they're not alone.

Find the Right Words

Ultimately, sympathy comes in many shapes and sizes. These words remind us that we’re not alone, that others stand with us, and that our loved ones will be remembered. The sympathy messages above can support someone who experienced a recent loss, honoring their experience .

Whether you’re sending flowers, a card, or a text message, don’t stress about finding the perfect words . It’s always better to say something than to stay silent.

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