Sympathy Wishes: What to Write in a Sympathy Card

Finding the right thing to say whilst someone is grieving can be tricky. Let Givetastic help you find the right sympathy wish.

Writing by
Ally Cherry

Finding the right words to say can be difficult at the best of times, especially when you’re having to think of sympathy wishes to write in a sympathy card.

At Givetastic, we understand that it can be an important, emotional task to get it just right.

Which is why we’ve thoughtfully curated a list of potential sympathy wishes to help you send your condolences.
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General Sympathy Wishes

We think it’s important to start simple and general. The person you are sending a sympathy card to will be grieving and emotional during this time, so we think that sometimes a simple sympathy wish is all that is needed.

We are so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all at this difficult time.
You and the rest of the family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Words fail me at this time. Thinking of you and sending love.
Sending love and comfort as you take time to heal from your loss.
Sharing in your sadness as we grieve the loss of our dear [name].
My heart goes out to you during this time. I know how much [he/she] meant to you. We will all miss them terribly.
The loss of [name] is felt by us all. We share your pain at this time.
I will be with you through every step of this difficult journey.
Here for you always as you grieve the loss of [name].
The pain you feel is felt by us all, know that you are not alone during this time.
Love, hugs and prayers to you and the family at this time.
We were deeply saddened by the news of [name]’s passing, sending love and condolences.
I hope that all of the wonderful memories of [name] provide you with some comfort during this difficult time.
Remembering your beloved [name] and thinking of you all at this time.
Heartfelt sympathies to you and your loved ones during this tough time.


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Appreciation Sympathy Wishes

Perhaps the person who has passed is someone who you knew and held dear, someone who you are grieving yourself.

This would be a good opportunity to send a sympathy wish of appreciation to show support and remind their closest loved ones of good memories.
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We all feel beyond blessed to have shared a life with [name] in it. [He/She] will be missed so deeply by so many.
A life full of laughter and love We will always remember [name].
[Name]’s infectious laugh still rings in my ears and always will, I am so sorry for your loss.
In such dark times, we reflect on the years full of happiness and wonderful memories. [Name] will forever be missed.
Today I reflect on memories shared with you and [name], and realise how lucky we were to have someone like [her/him] in our lives.
Your [son/daughter/mom/dad/husband/wife] touched so many lives for the best. They will be sorely missed.
It was a privilege getting to know [name] through the years. We will miss them so dearly.
[Name]’s ability to make me smile was unmatched. I will never forget the laughter and light that they brought into my life. I am so sorry for your loss.
[Name] will never be forgotten. They will forever live on in our countless happy memories. Sorry for your loss.
During this difficult time we can find solace in the good times and endless memories with [Name]. Sending all of our love.


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Offer of Help Sympathy Wishes

Sometimes when you can’t think of what to say, the best thing to do is offer to help.

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We are here whenever you need us, day or night during this difficult time. We are so sorry for your loss.
If there is anything we can do to help you through this difficult time please let us know.
You know where to find us when you need us. We will always be here to help you.
Years of love and support from both you and [Name], and now it’s my turn to return the favour. You know where I am anytime you need me.
It is so important to rest and heal during this difficult time. Anything you need, big or small, we are here to help.
We know how much [Name] took care of you. Anything you need help with, we are here for you.
I know that nothing I can do will take your pain away, but believe me when I say that no ask is too big or small. I will always be here for you.
This won’t be an easy time for you or the kids, if there is anything I can do to help you please don’t hesitate to ask.


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Sympathy Wishes when you can’t attend the Funeral

Sometimes unforeseen circumstances prevent us from attending a loved one's funeral, especially if it has been sudden and unexpected.

In these times it’s good to have a sympathy wish including an apology for your lack of attendance:
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I was so saddened to hear of [Name]’s sudden passing. I am so sorry that I can’t be there with you, but sending all my love to you and the family.
Sending all my love to you and the family during this difficult time. I can only apologise that I can’t be there to support you all.
My heart sank when I heard the news of your beloved [Name]’s passing. Sorry that I can’t be there to help you say goodbye.
It’s difficult for me to say goodbye, so I hope that you can accept my apology for not being there at the memorial. All my love.
I’m sorry I can’t be there to show my physical support during this difficult time. But know that no matter how far away I am, I am always here for you.
It breaks my heart knowing that I can’t be there to support you. I’m sure it will be a beautiful send off for [Name].
As you know, me and [Name] didn’t always see eye to eye and for that reason I hope you can understand why I cannot attend your memorial. I can only apologise and send my love.
Although I can’t be there with you in body, I will be there in spirit to support you on this difficult day.
I am so sorry that I am unable to attend [Name]s’ funeral. They truly meant a lot to me and my family. I hope to be able to make the journey and see you soon.


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Losing anyone at any age can be difficult, expected or otherwise. Sometimes on the darker days of grief, receiving a heartfelt message from a loved one is what gets you through.

Which is why we feel that using one of our carefully crafted sympathy wishes is a good way of not only showing your support, but making your grieving loved one feel better.

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