Finding the right words to say to someone going through bereavement can be challenging and emotional. It could be difficult, especially if you didn’t know the deceased personally, as you don’t want to say the wrong thing.
We’ve come up with some thoughtful messages to write either in a sympathy card, text message, note, or letter for someone dealing with the loss of a loved one. The bereavement message will show that person how much you care and will be a sign of support.
Handwritten bereavement messages can be powerful as they are so personal and are a more personal form of communication. Speaking from the heart or sharing memories about their loved one with someone who is grieving can be comforting for them. Bereavement messages allow the recipient to know that you’re thinking of them and that they’re not alone.
We hope you find some inspiration in these bereavement messages below.
How can you write a bereavement message?
Writing a bereavement message can be difficult, as it can be hard to find the right words to express your sympathy and support for someone who has lost a loved one. Here are a few tips to help you write a bereavement message:
- Start by expressing your condolences. A simple statement such as “I am sorry for your loss” or “My deepest sympathy to you and your family” can be a good way to begin.
- Share a fond memory or personal story about the person who has passed away. This can help to personalize your message and show that you knew and cared about the person.
- Offer support and let the person know that you are there for them. For example, you can say “If there’s anything I can do to help, please let me know.”
- Keep your message brief and to the point. While it’s important to express your sympathy, it’s also important to respect the person’s need for privacy and space during this difficult time.
- Avoid using cliches or religious or spiritual statements unless you know the person well and are certain that it will be well-received.
- Consider ending with a thoughtful quote or a personal message of hope and love.
- Sign off with your name.
Here’s an example of a bereavement message:
“Dear [Name], I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of [Name of Deceased]. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. I remember [Name of Deceased] as a kind and generous person who always had a smile on their face. Please know that I am here for you and if there’s anything I can do to help, please let me know. With deepest sympathy, [Your Name]”
It’s important to remember that there are no right or wrong words to say in a bereavement message. The most important thing is to be sincere and to let the person know that you care.
How should you send a bereavement message?
Sending a bereavement message can be done in a few different ways, depending on your relationship with the person who has lost a loved one and the type of message you want to send. Here are a few options:
Handwritten note
A handwritten note is a personal and thoughtful way to express your sympathy. It can be sent by mail or hand-delivered to the person’s home or place of work.
Email or text message
Email and text messages can be a convenient way to send a message, especially if you are unable to visit in person.
Phone call
A phone call can be a good option if you want to express your sympathy and offer support in a more personal and immediate way.
Flowers or gift
Sending flowers or a gift can be a thoughtful way to express your sympathy, but it’s important to consider the person’s preferences and cultural background before sending.
Social Media
Some people may prefer to express their condolences via social media, this can be a good option for those who live far away or for those who want to share the news with a larger group of people.
No matter how you choose to send your message, it’s important to be sincere and heartfelt. It’s also important to be mindful of the timing of your message, it is best to send your message sooner rather than later, but also consider the family’s customs and traditions. It’s also important to be respectful of the person’s wishes if they would prefer to not receive messages during this time.
What’s the best way to thank someone for the bereavement message they have sent?
Expressing gratitude for a bereavement message can be an important part of the healing process and a way to more easily acknowledge the support and kindness of others during a difficult time. Using one of the following ways can make it easier for you to acknowledge someone’s message.
- Send a handwritten note: A handwritten note is a personal and thoughtful way to thank someone for their message. It can be sent by mail or hand-delivered to the person.
- Make a phone call: A phone call can be a good option if you want to thank someone in a more personal and immediate way.
- Send an email or text message: Email and text messages can be a convenient way to thank someone, especially if you are unable to visit in person.
- Acknowledge the message in person: If you have an opportunity to see the person, you can thank them in person.
- Social media: Some people may prefer to thank others via social media, this can be a good option for those who live far away or for those who want to share the news with a larger group of people.
You can express your gratitude for the kind words, the time and effort that was put into writing the message, and for the support and comfort the person offered during this difficult time. Although this is often an emotive and difficult thing to do, it can help with the healing process and open discussion with those who care about you and the person you have lost in a positive way.
When should I send a bereavement message?
No matter how you choose to thank someone for their message, it’s important to be sincere and heartfelt. When it comes to the timing of when to send a bereavement message to someone who has recently lost someone, there is no perfect time but often it’s sooner rather than later which is can carry the utmost sincerity with the message.
You should also consider the family’s customs and traditions with the timing of your message. Personal visits or phone calls may not be the most appropriate message to receive in the immediate aftermath of a bereavement unless you are extremely close to the deceased or the family member you are sending the message to.
It’s important to remember that the bereavement process is a difficult and personal journey and there is no right or wrong way to express gratitude. What’s most important is to show appreciation and acknowledgement with kind words, thoughts and actions that you can extend during this difficult time. It will be greatly appreciated.