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How To Write A Condolence / Sympathy Letter

Category: Letters Of Condolence


When it comes to writing a letter of sympathy and condolence, it can be hard to find the right words to express your heartfelt thoughts, feelings and emotions.

Words of condolence are a way to demonstrate your love, respect and support for the bereaved, One that can really be cherished by the bereaved and a sympathy message in which they can choose to revisit whenever they choose.

Here are some tips that may help you when looking to put pen to paper and write that all important letter of condolence.

Hand write your condolences

Whilst typing is the normal format for most correspondence these days, consider handwriting a heartfelt letter of condolence. This makes the sympathy message much more personal. You could even buy a card and place the letter inside.


Share a memory

A way to shine a few moments of light into the bereaved person’s new found darkness is to share a fond memory you may have of the deceased. This can be helpful for the person’s suffering as well as showing the positive impact their loved one had on the people around them.


Keep the words short

Sympathy offerings can be so hard to put into words. When you had a close relationship with the deceased, often you want to say everything that you are feeling. But the main message you want to convey when writing the sympathy letter is one of sincerity.


Describe your relationship with the deceased and also express how they touched your life and what you will miss about them. Try to keep the letter of condolence as brief as possible, whilst also being poignant.


Offer your personal support

If you are able to offer your personal assistance for the bereaved in the near future, make sure to include this in your condolence letter and ensure to stick to any promised offers of support.


Mention in your words of condolence that you are here for them and offer any specific types of help you can provide, such as cooking, cleaning or picking up their weekly food shop.

Here are some helpful examples when it comes to writing letters of sympathy:

Condolence letter to a friend

“Dear Rebecca,

I cannot find the words to express how deeply sorry I am to hear about the passing of your mother. She was such an important part of your life, and touched so many others around her in the best of ways.

My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this deeply difficult time. Please give your father and brother a big hug from me. Please also know that I love you and am here whenever you need me. All you need to do is say the word.

With deepest affection and sympathy,

Jess”

Condolence email to client

“Dear Mrs. Jones,

It was with great sadness that I heard about the recent loss of your father and wanted to reach out and express my heartfelt sympathy during this difficult time.

Whilst I never had the chance to meet your father directly, through our working relationship over the past few years, I have seen and understood the close bond you both shared.

Please let us know if there is anything that we can do to help support you. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time and we all send you our deepest condolences.”

With sympathy,

John Doe,

Company X”