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It’s difficult to know the right thing to say when someone experiences a loss. We’re here to help, with 130 meaningful sympathy card messages, including ones for family , friends , colleagues, and more. You’ll find short messages that are ideal for texting or posting on social media, along with tips on how to personalize your sympathy card. We’ve also spoken to a clinical therapist, a psychologist, and a grief counselor about the best ways to express your sincerest condolences.
Thoughtful Sympathy Card Messages
- I’m truly sorry for your loss. Sending you warm thoughts and prayers during this time.
- We’ve lost such a significant part of our family, but we’ll get through this together.
- You don’t have to go through this alone. Lean on me whenever you need to.
- Sending you positive thoughts and lots of prayers.
- I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm sharing in your sadness and praying for you during this difficult time.
- If you need anything—someone to listen, a distraction, or just a quiet presence—I’m here.
Steps
Heartfelt Sympathy Card Messages
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Speak from the heart to show how much you care. Phrases like “my heart goes out to you” and “I’m truly sorry for your loss” both express genuine sympathy. These simple messages let them know you’re there for them in any way they need. Acknowledge that you can’t fully know how they feel, but you want to share your condolences just the same.
- I know your grief must seem insurmountable. Please know that I'm thinking of you and praying for you.
- Be kind and gentle with yourself. Take your time. You have my deepest condolences and support.
- I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm sharing in your sadness and praying for you during this difficult time.
- I’m truly sorry for your loss. Sending you warm thoughts and prayers during this time.
- May the love and support of friends and family bring you comfort in the days ahead.
- I can’t begin to imagine your pain, but I hope you find moments of peace as you grieve.
- Wishing you strength and comfort in the coming days. Please know you are in my thoughts.
- My heart goes out to you. If there’s anything I can do, even in a small way, please let me know. [1] X Research source
Meet the wikiHow Experts
Vernita Marsh, PhD , is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 30 years of clinical psychology experience. She offers consultation for therapists, coaches, and trainees in mental health.
Joseph Phillips, MSW , is a clinical therapist and social worker who specializes in relationship and attachment therapy and treats anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use.
Cole Imperi is a grief counselor and thanatologist with over 17 years of experience. Her mission is to help people explore their relationship with death, dying, grief, and loss so they can get the most out of life.
Sympathy Card Messages for Family
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Honor how much family means when you express sympathy . Being part of a family means sticking together through thick and thin. There is no better way to demonstrate this idea than by stating how you’ll get through the hard time together. Your condolence message to family should let them know you’re there for them through every step of the grieving process.
- We’re all hurting right now, but please remember you’re not alone—I’m right here with you.
- I can’t imagine our family without [Name]. My heart is with you, and I’m always here for you.
- Losing [Name] is so hard for all of us, but I’m grateful we have each other to lean on.
- I miss [Name] so much, and I know you do, too. Let’s cherish the love and memories we shared.
- We’ve lost such a significant part of our family, but we’ll get through this together.
- I know nothing can take away the pain, but I hope you find some comfort in knowing how much you’re loved.
- No words can ease this loss, but I want you to know how much I love you and am here for you.
- We’ll get through this together, one step at a time. I love you more than words can say. [2] X Research source
Sympathy Card Messages for Friends
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Show your friends that you’ll be there wherever they need you. Being a good friend is about showing support when needed. They’ll know that instantly when you say things like “my heart is with you” and “lean on me whenever you want to.” Condolence messages for friends are all about showing this support and then following through with actions that help those experiencing grief.
- I’m so sorry for your loss. My heart is with you during this difficult time.
- I can’t begin to imagine how you’re feeling, but please know I’m always here for you.
- If you need anything—someone to listen, a distraction, or just a quiet presence—I’m here.
- I wish I had the right words, but please know you are in my thoughts, and I’m here for you.
- You don’t have to go through this alone. Lean on me whenever you need to.
- Take all the time you need to grieve. I’ll be here whenever you need me.
- There are no words to ease your pain, but I want you to know how much I care about you.
- You are loved, and you are not alone. I’m here for you today and always. [3] X Research source
Sympathy Card Messages for Colleagues
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Let those you work with know you’ve got their back. These condolence messages work for those you’re close to at work, along with colleagues you’re not good friends with. They’re simple, honest, and thoughtful without being too personal. They express sympathy and empathy in direct, genuine ways.
- My deepest condolences to you and your loved ones. If there’s anything I can do to support you, please let me know.
- I hope you find comfort in the love and support around you. Thinking of you and your family.
- Please take all the time you need. We’re here to support you however we can.
- I’m truly sorry for your loss. If you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to reach out.
- My heart goes out to you. Wishing you peace and comfort in the days ahead.
- I can’t imagine how difficult this must be for you. Please know you are in my thoughts.
- I hope you find strength in the love of those around you. Sending you my deepest sympathies.
- Thinking of you and wishing you comfort as you go through this difficult time. [4] X Research source
Short Sympathy Card Messages
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Share a short message of sympathy via text and on social media. It’s not always possible to send a condolence card in time or be present when someone’s loved one passes away. These messages show sympathy using a single phrase or sentence. If you’ve already sent a sympathy card and want to follow up on social media or in a text, they’re also ideal for letting the person know you’re still thinking of them.
- There's no wrong way to grieve.
- Deepest sympathies. I am so sorry for your loss.
- Sending you positive thoughts and lots of prayers.
- You're in my thoughts. Let me know if I can help with anything.
- Sending you all the good vibes I can.
- Lean on me; I'm happy to be your shoulder to cry on.
- Wishing you all the peace and comfort possible.
- When you are ready, I am here for you. [5] X Research source
Sympathy Card Messages for Sudden Death
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Focus on love and support when a loss is unexpected. If a death occurs from a sudden illness or accident, it can be even harder to deal with. Keep your sympathy messages direct and supportive. Acknowledge how hard this kind of loss is, and offer to be there for them when they need you.
- I am so deeply sorry for your sudden loss. My heart is with you during this incredibly difficult time.
- My heart aches for you. I can’t imagine how hard this must be, and I am keeping you in my thoughts.
- I was heartbroken to hear the news. Please know you are surrounded by love and support.
- I can’t begin to understand what you’re going through, but I’m here for you however you need me.
- This loss is truly unimaginable. I hope you can find moments of comfort in the love of those around you.
- My deepest sympathies for your sudden loss. I am thinking of you and sending you strength.
- No words can make this easier, but please know I care and am here for you.
- I am so incredibly sorry. My heart goes out to you, and I hope you find support and love in the days ahead. [6] X Research source
Sympathy Card Messages Relating to Suicide
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Choose thoughtful and positive words when a suicide has occurred. It can be incredibly difficult to express sympathy when someone experiences a loss due to suicide. Your message can still show empathy and care without bringing attention to how the deceased passed away. Phrases like “I am so sorry for your pain” and “Know that you are cared for and supported” let them know you’re there for them.
- Wishing you hope and peace during this difficult time.
- This is a tragedy. I am so sorry for your pain.
- I am at a loss for words, and I know no words would do justice to describe my sympathies anyway. I pray that [deceased’s name] is at peace now.
- I am just a phone call away and always ready to listen and grieve. My deepest sympathies.
- Your [relationship with the deceased] was an amazing person. Call me to grieve, look back on wonderful memories, or if you ever need a laugh.
- I can't possibly begin to understand how you are feeling or what you must be going through at this time. But I want you to know I am thinking of you, am always here for you, and will be a supportive friend forever.
- Words cannot express the sorrow. Know that you are cared for and supported. Please reach out if you need anything at all. You are not alone.
- I’m so sorry. It’s OK if you don’t want to talk about this now. I’m here to listen whenever. [7] X Research source
Sympathy Card Messages for a Miscarriage
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Emphasize healing for those who have had a miscarriage. Express how you cannot understand what they’re going through, but communicate your sadness just the same. Then, focus on their healing and how you’ll be part of it whenever they need someone to talk to.
- The love you felt for your baby-to-be was real, and so is the loss you’re experiencing. I hope you can be gentle with yourself and honor whatever you’re feeling right now.
- I’m so sorry you’ve had to let go of the dreams you were already cherishing for your baby.
- I can’t begin to understand all you’re feeling right now, but I know it can’t be easy. I wish you didn’t have to go through a loss like this.
- Keeping you and [spouse name] in my thoughts and hoping for healing to come to you in time.
- I was deeply saddened to hear you’ve had a miscarriage. Just want you to know I’m here for you—to talk, to bring over a meal, or whatever you need right now.
- Just wanted to remind you that there was nothing you could or should have done differently. I’m so sorry this had to happen to you.
- There's no right or wrong way to grieve, and it's okay to feel however you're feeling. I'm here to listen if you need to talk.
- You're both in my thoughts as you navigate the grief of losing your baby.
Sympathy Card Messages for the Loss of a Parent
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Include happy memories while acknowledging the loss of a parent. When someone loses a parent, you can both express your heartfelt condolences while focusing on all the wonderful memories they have of their parent. Let them know how wonderful a parent they were, and offer your support to those who are grieving. Be sure to mention how proud their parent would be of who they have become.
- I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything.
- Your [mom/dad] was an incredible person who touched so many lives. Their memory will always live on.
- I am truly sorry for your loss. Wishing you peace and comfort in the days ahead.
- I know you’re grieving right now, and I just want you to know that you don’t have to go through it alone. Lean on those who love you, including me.
- I'm so sorry that you've lost someone whom you and your family loved so much.
- I'm sure you made your [mom/dad] so proud; I'm sorry their light is gone from your life.
- They were a rock for all of us, but I know they were even more than that for you.
- Their influence is obvious in the way you parent and the way you live your life. You are your [mother’s/father’s] legacy, and they must have been so proud of you. [8] X Research source
Sympathy Card Messages for the Loss of a Spouse
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Celebrate love and commitment through your support. Express how sorry you are to hear of the loss of their husband or wife. At the same time, let them know they’re not alone and that you’re there for them every step of the way. Mention how many wonderful memories there are surrounding the love they shared with their spouse.
- Please don’t hesitate to reach out. You don’t have to go through this alone—I’m here for you.
- Sending you my deepest condolences. I hope you feel surrounded by love and support during this difficult time.
- Love like yours never fades. May the memories of your [husband/wife] bring you comfort and peace.
- Wishing you strength as you grieve. You are in my thoughts, and I am always here for you.
- I know your heart is broken and your life has turned upside down. I love you and am praying for you.
- I have so many happy memories of the two of you; if you ever want to reminisce about the happy times, I'd love to come by.
- You've lost your life partner and your love. Nothing can replace them. I certainly can't, but I can bring you groceries. I will do anything and everything that you need.
- I cannot imagine how much you are hurting right now; I know the road ahead of you is long, and I will walk with you along it as much as I can. [9] X Research source
Sympathy Card Messages for the Loss of a Sibling
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Offer help and healing to those who’ve lost their sibling. Speak about how important the relationship was in their life and how much their sibling meant to them. Concentrate on the happy memories they shared as a family and tell them that you’ll always be there to talk about those memories whenever they need to.
- Losing a [brother/sister] is heartbreaking, and I hope you find comfort in the love and memories you shared.
- My heart aches for you. I am sending you strength and love as you grieve your [brother/sister].
- I know how much your [brother/sister] meant to you, and I hope their memory brings you moments of peace.
- I am so sorry for your loss. If you ever need to talk, cry, or just have company, I am here for you.
- The bond you shared with your [brother/sister] was so special, and their love will always be with you.
- I love you, and I know they loved you, too. I'm so sorry that the world has lost such a bright light.
- I didn't know your [brother/sister], but I'd like to know more about them. If you ever want to remember or share, I would like to hear about who they were and your times together.
- I cannot imagine a world without your [brother/sister], and I know you can't either. The memories of them will always be with us, and I was so thankful to know them. [10] X Research source
Sympathy Card Messages for the Loss of a Child
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Recognize how unbelievably difficult the loss of a child is. Avoid saying that the death of a son or daughter was "meant to be" or a part of "God's plan"; instead, show empathy by saying things like “I am here for you, always” and “I am keeping you in my prayers.” If your words give them the space they need to grieve, they’ll be more likely to reach out when they need a friend.
- My heart breaks for you. I am so incredibly sorry for your loss, and I am keeping you in my prayers.
- No parent should ever have to go through this. I hope you feel surrounded by love and support.
- I wish I had the right words, but please know that you are not alone. I am here for you, always.
- Your love for your child will never fade, and their memory will always live on. I am sending you all my love.
- The world has taken your most precious love, and my heart is broken for you. We are praying for you and love you.
- The phrase "there are no words" seems like the only thing that fits right now. I cannot fathom what you're going through, but I love you and am thinking of you.
- I cannot imagine how awful and bleak your world looks right now. I'm praying that hope and comfort flood your life during this dark time.
- This is the most awful thing that could have happened, and I cannot believe that it happened to you, such a wonderful person. It's unfair and horrible, and I'm so sorry. [11] X Research source
Sympathy Card Messages for the Loss of a Pet
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Express how important a pet’s love is for anyone grieving. Accept how special the relationship was, and let the other person know you’ll be there for them. Focus on how wonderful a life they gave their animal companion and how special the pet was to them. Show support in your sympathy message for the loss of a pet in whatever way they need during this time.
- I’m so sorry for the loss of your beloved [pet’s name]. They were truly special and will always be remembered.
- I know how much [pet’s name] meant to you, and my heart goes out to you during this difficult time.
- Losing a pet is like losing a family member. I hope you find comfort in the love and memories you shared.
- My heart aches for you. [Pet’s name] brought so much joy, and their love will always be with you.
- I know how much [pet's name] meant to you. Sending lots of love during this difficult time.
- I'm sorry to hear that [pet's name] crossed the rainbow bridge. My condolences are with you and your family.
- I am deeply sorry for the loss of [pet's name]. I know how much you loved them. They were truly a special pet.
- Losing a pet is never easy. Remember the good times you shared with [pet's name]. Those memories will always be with you.
Sympathy Card Messages Offering Help
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Specify what help you can offer rather than waiting for them to ask. It’s extra thoughtful to mention doing something kind for those who have lost a loved one. Offer to bring over a meal, promise that you’ll call to check in on them, or ask when you can visit to be by their side. Make sure to emphasize that your offer to help will only come when they’re truly ready to receive it.
- I’ve been thinking about what you must be going through, and it seems we can’t truly understand until we face the same situation. But I am ready to help in any way that I can.
- I am so sorry for your loss, and I wish I had something wonderful to say to make you feel better. Please know I’m willing to help you however I can during this difficult time.
- Thinking of your family with love and wanting to help out in any way I can. I’ll call to see when would be a good night to bring over a meal.
- You’ve got so much on your mind and in your heart right now. We hope it will make one less worry to know that we will be taking care of the yard for as long as you need.
- I know this must be a very difficult and demanding time for you all. We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything we can do—from [taking care of a pet] to picking up your dry cleaning, please let us know.
- My deepest sympathy for your loss. I'd be happy to help with [specific task, e.g., errands, meals, childcare].
- Words can't express how sorry I am. Please let me know if there's anything I can do to help with the arrangements.
- I'm thinking of you during this difficult time and hoping you can feel my support.
Sympathy Card Messages When Unable to Attend Memorial
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Send genuine condolences when you can’t be there. Whether the person chooses not to have a memorial right away or you simply cannot attend, it’s important to reach out and show them you care. Tell them they’re on your mind and offer yourself for anything they need, from a later visit to a phone call. Your support will help them not to feel alone during this time.
- I wish I could be there to honor [Name] along with you. They were a wonderful [relationship].
- I know [Name]’s memorial service won’t happen for a few months yet. Just didn’t want to let that much time go by without reaching out to tell you how saddened I am by their passing. They will be deeply missed.
- It’s hard to lose someone who meant so much to all of us, and even harder that we can’t all be together to say goodbye. We want you to know we’re with you in spirit, now and in the days and weeks ahead.
- Even though I can’t be there for [Name]’s service, I just want you to know I’m here to drop food by, mow the lawn, or anything else that comes up.
- I’m sorry we couldn’t be there to celebrate the life of [Name]. You and your family are in our thoughts.
- I’m sorry we couldn’t attend your service for [Name]. Our family sends our condolences.
- We weren’t able to attend [Name]’s service, but you and your family have been in our thoughts. I’ll coordinate with you to drop off dinner this week.
- Please accept my sincere apologies for not being able to attend the funeral. My heart goes out to you.
Quotes About Grief for Sympathy Card Messages
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Include a quote about grief so your message stays with them. Sometimes, it can be hard to know what to say when someone passes away . Or, you might want to share a deeper idea that you’re not comfortable writing on your own. In this case, using (or adding) a famous quote can touch the hearts of those who grieve like no other message can.
- “What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” — Helen Keller
- “Those we love and lose are always connected by heartstrings into infinity.” — Terri Guillemets
- “Grief is the price we pay for love.” — Queen Elizabeth II
- “There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” — Mahatma Gandhi
- “What is lovely never dies, but passes into another loveliness.” — Thomas Bailey Aldrich
- “When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.” — Unknown
- “May love be what you remember most.” — Darcie Sims
- “The pain passes, but the beauty remains.” — Pierre-Auguste Renoir
- “Tears are words that need to be written.” — Paulo Coelho
- “Although it’s difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.” — Unknown
Ways to Personalize a Sympathy Card Message
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1Be genuine when expressing condolences. Use phrases and messages in a sympathy card that let those grieving know you’re thinking of them. Include sentiments that make them feel like they’re not alone. If you prefer to customize existing sympathy messages in a way that speaks to them more powerfully, do it. They’ll know that you’re by their side throughout the grieving process and beyond. A few examples follow here: [12] X Research source
- I know your grief must seem insurmountable. Please know that I'm thinking of you and praying for you.
- Be kind and gentle with yourself. Take your time. You have my deepest condolences and support.
- I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm sharing in your sadness and praying for you during this difficult time.
- Avoid saying things like “this happened for a reason” or “I know how you feel," and avoid including phrases like “you should” or “you will.” Try not to bring up painful details about the death; instead, focus on personal, authentic messages that bring comfort.
- Grief counselor Cole Imperi suggests that “the purpose of a sympathy card is not to make it hurt less—that's not possible. Instead, it's really helpful to directly acknowledge loss. Sometimes, when you avoid naming their experience—the person who died, or what they’re grieving—you’re ignoring their reality. I always recommend stating it directly. It's even more powerful when you’re able to be specific.” [13]
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Expert Source
Cole Imperi
Certified Thanatologist Expert Interview
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2Share a meaningful memory (if possible). Imperi states that “sharing memories or noting a characteristic you appreciate is a much more sincere and thoughtful way to say something, instead of repeating platitudes.” [14] X Expert Source Cole Imperi
Certified Thanatologist Expert Interview If you know the deceased and have joyful memories of them, include one in your condolence message. It doesn’t have to be extensive—a sentence that describes the memory is enough. Some examples are ahead: [15] X Research source- I’ll always treasure the memory of [Name] working in their garden. They brought me so many beautiful flowers every time I saw them.
- [Name] lit up every room they ever walked into. They made so many of our holiday celebrations special by playing games with the grandkids.
- I still recall our group vacation to [destination]. [Name] got us dancing and having a ball every single night.
- It’s acceptable to include a photo of the deceased if you believe it will bring comfort to the person grieving. The same holds when you post on social media or send a condolence text; attaching a thoughtful photo is a wonderful way to show you care.
- Clinical therapist Joseph Phillips, MSW, recognizes that “part of mourning is having memories—especially good memories—that can help someone move through those stages of grief.” [16]
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Expert Source
Joseph Phillips
Clinical Therapist, MSW Expert Interview
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3Tailor your message to the recipient. Consider your relationship to the grieving person, along with your relationship to the deceased, if you had one. Avoid being overly familiar if you’re not close to either person. Your words can still come across as thoughtful and empathic. [17] X Research source
- Consider their religious and/or cultural background as well. Use a respectful tone that is appropriate to their community.
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4Offer to help in specific ways. In addition to offering your condolences, it’s equally important to show support to those who are grieving. Be as specific as possible when it comes to helping them out during this difficult time. Some possible ideas on offering help are ahead: [18] X Research source
- I’m enclosing a $50 gift certificate for grocery delivery to help out. I’ll call soon to check in on you, and I am always up for a visit when you need to talk.
- I plan on dropping off some meals to comfort you and the family in this time of grief. I won’t stay unless you feel like company, but you’ll have some good food around the house.
- Do you want to talk? When you feel ready, I want to invite you to come over for coffee. We can relive happy memories of [Name], talk about how you’re feeling, or just chat to pass the time.
- Licensed clinical psychologist Vernita Marsh, PhD, believes that offering to help is incredibly important when someone is grieving. “A phone call, text, or card to say ‘thinking of you at this time,’ ‘you are in my thoughts,’ or ‘you're in my prayers,’—these kinds of things are very useful.” [19]
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Expert Source
Vernita Marsh, PhD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Consultant, & Speaker Expert Interview
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5Include a warm closing. Once you’ve expressed your heartfelt condolences, it’s just as important to include a thoughtful closing salutation before signing your name. It’ll help your message to stay with the person who reads it. Some examples of how to end a sympathy card message when signing a card follow here: [20] X Research source
- Wishing you peace
- You’re in our thoughts
- Thinking of you
- Always here for you
- Our sincerest sympathy
- With caring thoughts
- With loving memories
- With love
- With deepest sympathy
- With heartfelt condolences
Expert Q&A
Tips
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References
- ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/writing-tips/sympathy-card-message/
- ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/writing-tips/sympathy-card-message/
- ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/writing-tips/sympathy-card-message/
- ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/writing-tips/sympathy-card-message/
- ↑ https://www.southernliving.com/culture/sympathy-card-messages
- ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/writing-tips/sympathy-card-message/
- ↑ https://simplesympathy.com/sympathy-card-wording-for-a-suicide-death.html
- ↑ https://www.southernliving.com/culture/sympathy-card-messages
- ↑ https://www.southernliving.com/culture/sympathy-card-messages
- ↑ https://www.southernliving.com/culture/sympathy-card-messages
- ↑ https://www.southernliving.com/culture/sympathy-card-messages
- ↑ https://www.lovingly.com/unwrapped-blog/what-to-write-in-a-sympathy-card
- ↑ Cole Imperi. Certified Thanatologist. Expert Interview
- ↑ Cole Imperi. Certified Thanatologist. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://the-digital-reader.com/sympathy-message/
- ↑ Joseph Phillips. Clinical Therapist, MSW. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://www.lovingly.com/unwrapped-blog/what-to-write-in-a-sympathy-card
- ↑ https://the-digital-reader.com/sympathy-message/
- ↑ Vernita Marsh, PhD. Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Consultant, & Speaker. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/writing-tips/sympathy-card-message/