40 Condolence Messages to Send When You Don’t Have the Words to Say (2024)

Coping with loss is one thing that never gets easier, even with practice—and what’s just as difficult as experiencing loss is witnessing the grief of others. Unfortunately, as members of anyone’s support system, we can’t grieve secondhand, but we can offer condolence messages: kind words to remind a friend, co-worker, or loved one of the connection they still have Earth-side, a reality that grief easily shrouds.

A seemingly superficial message (and maybe even a sympathy gift) may not feel like much, but anyone who has dealt with grief will say that even a quick text is a welcome salve for the heart during such a difficult time. The tricky part, however, is finding the words to say, as no combination of them can heal all. You also want to be sensitive with your words, and think carefully about the situation at-hand. So, whether you put them in a card, a text, or an email, below, you can find some safe jumping-off points for condolence messages that will make a difference in anyone’s journey through loss.

• “Those who live in our memories are never truly gone.”
  
• “Celebrating the life of a good person and mourning their passing with you.”
• “May you be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding you.”
• “We hope you know we are by your side during this time of sorrow.”
• “Sending you strength today and peace in all the days ahead.”
• “Wishing you peace and comfort in these difficult days.”
• “I’m so sad for your loss. Thinking of you.”
• “With love and remembrance, we share in your sorrow.”

• “We are saddened to learn of your loss. Please know that we’re thinking of you and are here for anything you may need.”
• “Please accept my sincere condolences.”
• “In these moments, when there are no words, know that the ones we love remain beside us, now and always.”
• “If there wasn’t so much love, it wouldn’t be this hard to say goodbye. Our thoughts are with you.”
• “With deepest sympathy from your coworkers at [company name]. Please know we are thinking of you during this painful time.”
• “Thinking of you and your family; My deepest sympathy.”
• “On behalf of our entire team, please accept our deepest sympathies.”
• “Please know we are thinking of you during this painful time. As your work family, we are here for you.”
• “I am deeply sorry to hear about the passing of your loved one.”
• “Thinking of you and wishing you strength and comfort.”

• “What an amazing person and what a remarkable life. I feel so lucky that I got to know him.”
• “Your father was loved so deeply and so we will grieve deeply too.”
• “Your dad touched many people’s lives—mine included. I’m grateful I got the chance to know him.”
• “Your dad’s amazing personality lives on through you. Sending you love during this difficult time.”

• “Mothers never really leave us. They are always with us and we hope that gives you some small comfort during this difficult time.”
• “A mother’s love is infinite and all-encompassing. May you continue to feel her love every day even though she is no longer here with us.”
• “Your mother will be greatly missed; may you be comforted by your many memories of her and with her.”
• “I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing your mom, but I’m sure she was a special person because she raised an amazing human being: you. Wishing you peace and comfort during this unimaginable time.”

• “When something like this happens, it leaves everyone figuring out how to pick up the pieces. There are no words, only love and support during this sorrowful time. I am here for you.”
• “Love never dies. Your spouse’s love for you is everlasting.”
• “I’ll always admire the love shared between you and your spouse. You shared a one-of-kind bond that can never be broken.”
• “I’m deeply sorry for the loss of your beloved partner. You complemented each other like no other couple I know. May your precious memories bring you comfort.”