How to write a bereavement note

Finding the right message to send with a bereavement gift can be difficult. You don't want to say something that might upset the family or friends of the deceased person, but at the same time, you don't want to sound insensitive.

You want to speak a true sentiment from your heart, but sometimes a simple "I'm sorry" may be more appropriate, particularly if you are showing your concern and care with a tangible gesture or gift.

You are sending your thoughts to family who are going through one of the most difficult times in their lives. Depending on who has died, your message can either brighten their day or actually, make them feel worse. So there can be a lot of pressure to do it right:

• Send the card or message as soon as you find out about the death.
• Keep your message short and simple.
• If you were close to the deceased person, it is proper to express how much you will miss them and what he or she meant to you. If you weren't close to the person who died, simply acknowledging the death is sufficient.
• Use your full name when signing the message. There's a chance that someone else with the same first name will send a card or letter as well.

"Dear Jane and Family,

We are so sad to hear that you lost your dear Mike, cherished husband, loved father and grandfather.

Our condolences.
James and Sarah Jones"

Some general messages that work in bereavement cards include:

"I'm sorry for your loss"

"My deepest sympathies during your time of loss" "

"My thoughts and prayers are with you"

"[Name] will be deeply missed"

"Please accept my condolences"

"With heartfelt condolences"

"With caring thoughts"

"Peace, prayers and blessings"

Sympathy Messages From Co-Workers and Businesses

"With deepest sympathy for your loss.
The Staff at Samson EyeCare"

"With deepest sympathy, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
From all of your friends at Bright Point School."

"Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
From all the staff at ABC."

"Please accept our condolences on the loss of your Mother.
From all your friends at Avanti – Sarah, James, Mark, Sarah and Julie."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
From everyone at Johnstone Printing Company."

Besides dwelling on the details of the death, phrases or sayings NOT to be written on sympathy cards include:

"I know how you feel"

"Time heals all wounds"

"[Name] is in a better place now"

"I hope you feel better soon"

"It was his/her time to go"

"Tomorrow will be a better day"

"It's all for the best"

"I know you miss [Name]"

"Sending happy thoughts your way"

"This too shall pass"

"[Name] won't suffer anymore"

"Call me if you need anything"

Send a Sympathy Gift

We offer a range of sympathy gift baskets to let someone know your thoughts are with them over this difficult time.