How to write a meaningful sympathy card message

20 October 2022

During these challenging times of loss, we worry about saying the wrong thing to a grieving person. We try our best to follow funeral etiquette and be supportive.

Finding the right words to offer support, comfort and empathy can be a difficult and emotional experience. Different words may be needed at different times and occasions. A written card is different from words you say after a funeral or a eulogy. A sympathy card message should be brief, offer support if you have the means to do so, and include something personal like a memory.

We understand that sometimes words can be hard to find, especially when it comes to expressing emotions. To help you get started, use the following examples below as inspiration. We hope these help you to share your care with someone who is going through loss and grief.

If you need to purchase flowers, a complimentary handwritten card comes with every purchase from our florist. We hope this small gesture helps you convey your feelings in the most beautiful way possible.

Meaningful sympathy card messages

“I hope it helps a little to hear how much [name] was loved by others, too—me, for one. Sending my warmest love and hugs. I am so sorry for your loss.”
“Celebrating the life of a good person and mourning their passing with you.”
“My sincerest condolences for you at this time. You have my deepest sympathy and unwavering support. What an amazing person and what a remarkable life. I feel so lucky that I got to know [pronoun].”
“I know the days and months ahead will be a big adjustment, so please give yourself a lot of grace. Do whatever you need to take care of you—and know I’m here for you, too.”
“It’s hard to lose someone who meant so much to all of us. We want you to know we’re with you in spirit—now and in the days and weeks ahead.”
“We are deeply sorry about the loss of [name]. As you grieve, know that we are remembering and honouring [pronoun].”
“We are never ready to say goodbye to someone as special as [name]. Wishing you comfort and strength for the days and weeks ahead.”
“Although I don’t know exactly what to say, I want you to know that I am with you in thought and wish you comfort and peace as you remember [name]. With heartfelt sympathy.”
“Losing the one you love is so hard. Holding you close in my thoughts and hoping you are doing OK. I’m going to miss [name].”
“We were surprised and saddened to hear about [name’s] passing. It was a pleasure knowing [pronoun] and will be deeply missed.”
“My heart goes out to you and your family. Wishing you the best and know you have my full support in every moment. [Name] touched so many lives for the good. I’m grateful I had the chance to know [pronoun] as a friend.”
“Sharing in your sadness as you remember [name]/your lost loved one. Wishing you peace, comfort, courage, and lots of love at this time of sorrow.”
“I can’t begin to understand what you’re feeling right now, but I know it can’t be easy. Just want you to know I’m here for you—to talk, to bring over a meal, or whatever you need right now.”

Sympathy card messages for flowers

Call, come in-store or order flowers online at our on-site florist, Café Vita et flores.

“May these flowers express what words never could. Sending you my deepest sympathies.”
“I hope you find these flowers as beautiful as [name’s] spirit and know I’m thinking of you in this sad time.”
“We are so sorry to learn of the passing of [name]. Hoping these flowers can contribute toward the beautiful service [pronoun] deserves.”
“We don’t know how to ease your pain, but we hope that these flowers remind you of the beauty of life.”
“I remember [name] always loved [type of flower]. I have so many wonderful memories of [pronoun]. So sorry for your loss.”
“Though words, however gentle, cannot take your loss away, still may these flowers sent in sympathy help comfort you today.”
“Please accept these flowers and hear the words we are not able to speak. [Name] was a beautiful soul.”
“Please accept this arrangement as a sign of my deepest condolences. [Name] was a great person.”
“May these flowers serve as an expression of my deepest condolences. [Name] will be missed.”
“May these flowers offer a little light during these times. Our thoughts are with you and your family.”

Sympathy card messages for loss of a father figure

“What a good and generous man your father was. He will be missed.”
“Your granddad believed in [belief]. I am so honoured to have known him.”
“The lessons your dad taught you, the love he gave, the way he cared for others…all those good things live on in you.”
“Our family will not be the same without [name]. I know we’ll find comfort in each other and we’ll get through this together.”
“There are no words for the legacy [name] has left on our family. Their memories and personality will live on in our hearts.”
“The joy that your grandfather brought to the people around him will never be forgotten. May you always feel his love and pride.”
“What an amazing life your father led. I will never forget the way he smiled and the way he loved you with every piece of his heart.”
“Such a strong man will never truly be gone, for he has left such a strong and loving presence in our hearts.”

Sympathy card messages for loss of a mother figure

“Your mother was an amazing lady, and I feel privileged to have known her. I know you will miss her deeply. I’ll be keeping you in my thoughts.”
“I didn’t get the chance to know your mother well, but I know she must have been someone special to have raised a great son like you.”
“Your mother’s qualities are being carried on beautifully by you. She will be greatly missed and always remembered.”
“A mother is with us always, first in her lifetime, then forever in our memory.”
“My heart goes out to you as we fondly remember our grandmother. We are eternally grateful for all that she has done for us. She will be missed by many.”
“Your mother was such a pleasure to have around. I have learned so much from her and will remember her always. I love you and am truly sorry for your loss.”
“Mothers carry their children in their hearts, and children carry mothers in their hearts too. Keep your Mum there, and carry her memory with you always. She was a wonderful woman, and I am so sorry for your loss.”

Sympathy card messages for loss of a friend

“Our thoughts are with you as you remember your beautiful friend. They were a joy and we hope the sadness never outweighs the happiness of knowing them.”
“Friend, there are no words for something as heartbreaking as this. I wish you didn’t have to know this pain. If you ever want to share memories and stories, I’m here.”
“My heart goes out to you for the loss of your dear friend. I hope your happy memories will help you through this difficult time.”
“May [name] rest in peace. Know that I’m here for you during this time of grieving.”
“It was a joy to be in the presence of [name]. I will never forget the warmth of their smile.”
“Wishing you peace to bring you comfort, courage to face the days ahead, and loving memories to forever hold in your heart.”
“I can’t imagine how much you will miss [name]. I know how close you were and the pain of this loss must be unbearable. I’m so sorry for your loss.”

If the process is causing you grief at an already challenging time, remember to seek help from a trusted person, your GP, or services like Beyond Blue or Griefline.

For support in a safe and calming environment, you can also participate in our events and programs. All are welcome.