150+ Short Sympathy & Condolence Messages to Send to Family Members

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Comfort a grieving loved one with these short condolence messages
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If someone in your family has recently lost a loved one, sending a thoughtful condolence message can bring them peace and strength. In this article, we’re providing the ultimate list of short condolence messages and quotes to offer your support. We also spoke with clinical therapists and a psychologist for advice on what to say to someone who’s coping with a death and the purpose of sending condolence messages.

Deepest Condolence Messages for Death & Loss

  • Wishing you peace and strength amidst the pain.
  • Words fail to express my deep sorrow for your loss.
  • With deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences.
  • Sending you love and light during this season of loss.
  • Sharing your sadness as you remember (deceased’s name).
  • May the cherished memories of your loved one bring you solace.
  • Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
Section 1 of 14:

Short Condolence Messages to Write in a Card

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  1. 1
    Acknowledge the grieving person’s pain and offer them support. [1]
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Death is never easy to talk about, but “the best thing you can do is to give the person space and let them know you’re available for whatever they need,” according to clinical therapist and adjunct professor Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFP. [2] When offering your condolences, acknowledge their emotions, offer your wishes and prayers, and let them know you’re here to support them. [3] Here are some example messages:

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    • Holding you in my thoughts and prayers.
    • I’m sincerely sorry for your unexpected loss.
    • Wishing you peace and strength amidst the pain.
    • Words fail to express my deep sorrow for your loss.
    • With deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences.
    • Sending you love and light during this season of loss.
    • May you find strength in the love of friends and family.
    • With love and remembrance, we share in your sorrow.
    • Sharing your sadness as you remember (deceased’s name).
    • I’m wishing you peace and strength during this time of sorrow.
    • May the cherished memories of your loved one bring you solace.
    • Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I’m truly sorry for your loss.
    • You’re in my thoughts as you navigate this loss, and I’m here for you.
    • (Deceased’s name) would be so proud of the person you’ve become.
    • Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
    • The rain may be falling, but the sun will eventually shine its light on you.
    • I’m so sorry for your loss, and I’m praying for you during this difficult time.
    • My heart aches for you, and I pray you’re surrounded by love and support.
    • Celebrating the life of a wonderful person and mourning their passing with you.
    • I’m thinking of you and your family as you remember (deceased’s name) today.
    • Praying for your peace and comfort. Please know you’re not alone in your grief.
    • My heart goes out to you and your family. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
    • Please know I’m here for you during this difficult time—I’m only a phone call away.
    • I cannot take away the pain from your loss, but I hope my words bring you comfort.
    • Your loved one’s memory will always be a source of comfort. May they rest in peace.
Section 2 of 14:

Short Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Mother

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  1. Losing a mother is a devastating experience, especially since she’s seen as a pillar of unconditional love and support. If someone in your family has lost their mom, mention her best qualities and remind them that her spirit will be kept alive by those who knew her.
    • Your mother’s beautiful spirit will always be with you.
    • May your mother’s love continue to guide and comfort you always.
    • Your mother was loved so deeply and so we will grieve deeply too.
    • May you find joy, peace, and wisdom in the memories of your mom.
    • Your mother had such a magnetic spirit, and I know she is deeply missed.
    • A mother’s love is forever. May her memory bring you comfort and solace.
    • Your mom was such an amazing woman, and I see so much of her in you.
    • I may not have the right words, but I am truly sorry for the loss of your mother.
    • Your mother was such an amazing person, and I know you’re missing her deeply.
    • Praying you remember the beautiful memories of your mother throughout your life.
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Section 3 of 14:

Short Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Father

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  1. The death of a father can leave a profound void in someone’s life, especially if they looked up to him for guidance, security, or protection. To offer a family member comfort and solace, let them know their father loved them deeply and that his legacy will live on in them.
    • Your father’s love lives on within you.
    • Your father will forever remain in our hearts and memories.
    • Your dad was a one-of-a-kind guy who will be deeply missed.
    • Your father was truly special, and his love will always be with you.
    • May your father’s soul rest in peace. Sending you love and support.
    • Your dad’s love and light will always shine through you. Thinking of you.
    • Remembering your dad today. He was truly special and always spoke highly of you.
    • Please know that your dad’s legacy lives on through you and he is so incredibly proud of you.
    • I hope you look at the precious memories with your dad and find strength to live beyond the pain.
    • I know how much your father meant to you, and I’m wishing you peace, strength, and loving memories to carry you through.
Section 4 of 14:

Short Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Sibling

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  1. Siblings are our first and forever friends, making such losses deeply painful. Let your grieving family member know you’re there for them during this difficult time and that they will always share a special bond with their brother or sister, no matter what.
    • Your sister/brother’s spirit will always be with you.
    • You’ve lost someone so special. I’m here to support you, no matter what.
    • You’ve lost a huge part of your heart, and I’m thinking of you during this time.
    • There are no words, only my love and support. May your sibling rest in peace.
    • Your sibling’s love will always be with you, even though they’re physically gone.
    • I know how close you and your sister/brother were, and my heart aches for you.
    • The relationship you shared with (deceased’s name) transcends time and space.
    • I know how much (deceased’s name) meant to you. I’m here for you, day or night.
    • I’m truly sorry for the loss of (deceased’s name). I know they meant everything to you.
    • You and (deceased’s name) shared such a special bond, and their memory will live on in you forever.
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Section 5 of 14:

Short Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Spouse

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  1. Nothing can describe the intense heartbreak of losing a partner, but writing a thoughtful message can help you pay tribute to them and bring peace and comfort to their other half. Try sharing a message about the deep love your family member shared with their spouse to help them come to terms with the loss.
    • Love never dies. Your spouse’s love for you is everlasting.
    • May your wife/husband's love always be a light in your heart.
    • I can’t imagine the depth of your sorrow. I’m here for you always.
    • My heart breaks for you. If you’d ever like to talk, I’m here to listen.
    • Your wife/husband’s love for you was truly special, and that love will never fade.
    • I see so much of (deceased's name) in you, and I know their love will always be with you.
    • The love you shared with (deceased’s name) was beautiful. May you find comfort in their love.
    • I know how much you loved (deceased’s name), and I hope you can find comfort in their memory.
    • Nothing can fill the space left by (deceased’s name), but we are always here to comfort and support you.
    • I’m so sorry for the loss of your wife/husband. If you ever need to talk, cry, or have someone nearby, I'm here.
Section 6 of 14:

Short Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Child

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  1. 1
    Express sympathy for a family member who has recently lost their child. [4]
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According to clinical therapist Joseph Phillips, MSW, the best way to support someone dealing with the death of a child is to “help them understand that the things that they’re going through are normal.” [5] Whether they’re experiencing anger, denial, or depression, try to normalize the grieving process and all the emotions and stages they’ll go through.

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    • Your son/daughter’s memory lives on through you.
    • Your child’s light will never fade. I am holding you in my heart.
    • Your child’s love remains through it all. I’m truly sorry for your loss.
    • There are no words to describe this kind of loss. My heart is with you.
    • I wish I had the right words. Please know you are deeply loved and not alone.
    • Nothing can replace your child, but I hope you know how cherished they were.
    • I cannot imagine the pain you’re feeling. If you need anything, I am here for you.
    • You raised an incredible person who will live on through you and your loved ones.
    • We truly never get over the loss of losing a child. I hope you know their love remains with you.
    • Being a parent is the biggest blessing in life, and you will always be the parent of an amazing child.
Section 7 of 14:

Short Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Grandparent

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  1. Their grandmother or grandfather probably lived a long and fruitful life that deserves to be remembered. So, offer some kind and respectful words to comfort their family and remind them of the love they will carry on in their hearts.
    • Your grandparent’s legacy will live on in you forever.
    • Your grandma/grandpa’s love and wisdom will always guide you.
    • Your grandma/grandpa was such a beautiful soul. My heart goes out to you.
    • I can’t imagine the heartache you’re feeling. Praying for your peace and comfort.
    • Thinking of you as you celebrate your grandmother/grandfather’s remarkable life.
    • Your grandparent blessed so many people with their love and kindness. May they rest in peace.
    • I know how much your grandparent shaped your life. I’m here for you as you mourn their loss.
    • Wishing you peace and strength as you hold onto the beautiful memories of your grandparent.
    • Your grandparent’s warmth and kindness touched so many. They will always be remembered.
    • The bond you had with your grandparent was truly special, and I know you’ll carry their love with you forever.
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Section 8 of 14:

Short Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Friend

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  1. Whether they lost a childhood friend or someone they befriended recently, a short and sympathetic message can go a long way in comforting someone. Reach out to your family member and express how sorry you are for their loss, grief, and pain.
    • The love you had for your friend will last a lifetime.
    • I’m so sorry for your loss. Your friend will never be forgotten.
    • Your friend will always be remembered. Sending you all my love.
    • I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Your friend’s memory will live on in all of us.
    • I’m thinking of you and sending strength as you grieve the loss of your friend.
    • Your friend may not be here anymore, but their love will never leave your heart.
    • Gone, but never far from our hearts. Deepest sympathy for the loss of your friend.
    • Death may have taken your friend, but it can never take away the love you shared.
    • I know how much (deceased’s name) meant to you, and I promise to help keep their memory alive.
    • Their absence is a wound that time cannot heal, but their memory is a treasure you’ll always carry in your heart.
Section 9 of 14:

Condolence Messages for Someone Who Lost Their Home

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  1. The best way to offer your condolences is to acknowledge their loss and pain. Ask them if there’s anything you can do to support them, whether it’s providing them a place to stay or helping them rebuild their home. Be sure to validate their feelings and check in on them regularly to show your continued support.
    • Sending you love and strength as you rebuild.
    • I’m so sorry for everything you’ve lost. I’m here to help however I can.
    • I can’t imagine what you’re going through. Let me know if there’s anything I can do.
    • You’re in my heart during this difficult time. I’m here for you, no matter what you need.
    • I’m so sorry for your loss. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything at all.
    • My heart goes out to you. If you need a place to stay or anything else, I’m here for you.
    • Words can’t describe the heartbreak of losing your home. Please let me know if there’s any way I can help.
    • I can’t imagine the pain and emotions you’re feeling, but please know you’re not alone. I’m here to support you.
    • I’m so sorry for what you’re going through. If there’s anything I can do to make this time easier, let me know.
    • Losing a home is devastating. I’m so sorry for what you’re experiencing, and I’m here to support however I can.
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Section 10 of 14:

Condolence Messages for Someone Going Through a Divorce

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  1. If someone in your family is going through a divorce or separation, the best thing you can do is express your care, concern, and compassion. The end of a marriage can be a tricky situation, especially if you are close to both parties. However, offering a listening ear or helping them with childcare are practical ways to be supportive, without crossing any lines.
    • I know this isn’t easy, but I know you’ll come out stronger.
    • I’m so sorry for what you’re going through. Lean on me anytime.
    • You are stronger than you think. I’m here for you every step of the way.
    • I hate that you’re going through this, but I’ve got your back no matter what.
    • I know this is painful, but you will get through this. I’m here for you always!
    • My heart goes out to you. If you ever need to chat or escape for a bit, I’m here.
    • Divorce is never easy, but you’re not alone. If you need to talk, I’m here to listen.
    • Whether you need a distraction, a listening ear, or some company, I’m here for you.
    • You deserve peace and happiness. This is a tough chapter, but better days are coming.
    • I can’t imagine how difficult this is, but please know you have my support and friendship.
Section 11 of 14:

Condolence Messages for Someone Going Through Health Issues

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  1. When someone is going through a tough situation, “it’s easy for them to suppress emotions and invalidate their feelings,” says clinical psychologist Elisha Goldstein, PhD. [6] If you want to help a family member dealing with health struggles, provide support by being a good listener, offering to help with errands or chores, and not offering unsolicited advice.
    • Sending peace and healing vibes your way.
    • Wishing you strength, comfort, and better days ahead.
    • You are stronger than you think, and I know you’ll get through this!
    • Hoping each day brings you more strength and healing. I’m cheering for you!
    • You’re in my prayers every day. If there’s anything I can do, please let me know.
    • You are loved, you are strong, and you will overcome this. Rooting for you always!
    • Your strength and resilience inspire me every day. I’m here to support you however I can.
    • I can’t imagine how tough this is, but I do know how strong and brave you are. You are not alone.
    • To the strongest person I know, you’ve got this. I believe in you and know you can overcome this illness.
    • You’ve always been there for me, and now it’s my turn. I’m here for whatever you need, whenever you need.
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Section 12 of 14:

Religious Condolence Messages

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  1. The loss of a loved one can be an extremely painful time, but leaning on the Lord can help people cope with grief and mourning. If you want to send a verse to a family member who has lost a loved one, take the time to select a verse that resonates with their emotional state. The more personal, the better!
    • “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” —1 Peter 5:7
    • “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” —Psalm 147:3
    • “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” —Matthew 5:4
    • “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” —Psalm 46:1
    • “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.” —Isaiah 41:10
    • “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” —Psalm 34:18
    • “For it is you who light my lamp; the Lord my God lightens my darkness.” —Psalms 18:28
    • “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” —Matthew 11:28
    • “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” —Psalm 73:26
    • “Though He brings grief, He will show compassion, so great is His unfailing love.” —Lamentations 3:32
    • “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 4:7
    • “So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.” —John 16:22
Section 13 of 14:

Thoughtful Condolence Quotes

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  1. If you’re struggling to put your thoughts into words, turn to an author, celebrity, or public figure for help. Their quotes can comfort your family member during this difficult time and capture the depth of what they’re feeling. Here are some meaningful quotes to help them cope with grief and honor their passed loved one:
    • “What you remember saves you.” —M.S. Merwin
    • “Death ends a life, not a relationship.” —Jack Lemmon
    • Grief is the price we pay for love.” —Queen Elizabeth II
    • “All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” —Helen Keller
    • “It is not length of life, but depth of life.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson
    • “The life of the dead is placed in the heart of the living.” —Cicero
    • “Death is not the opposite of life, but a part of it.” —Haruki Murakami
    • “Love is how you stay alive, even after you are gone.” —Mitch Albom
    • “Grief, when it comes, is nothing like we expect it to be.” —Joan Didion
    • “There is love in holding and there is love in letting go.” —Elizabeth Berg
    • “To live in the hearts of those we love is never to die.” —Thomas Campbell
    • “They are not dead who live in the hearts they leave behind.” —Tuscarora Proverb
    • “Long after her death I felt her thoughts floating through mine.” —Vladimir Nabokov
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Section 14 of 14:

Frequently Asked Questions

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  1. 1
    How can you craft a personal condolence message for a sympathy card? Start by acknowledging the other person’s loss and expressing sympathy . If you knew the deceased, you can say something kind about them or share a fond memory. Finish off by offering support and letting them know you’re here for them. As long as you’re honest, empathetic, and genuine, they will appreciate your sympathy.
    • Remember, your message isn’t about “fixing” the other person’s problem—it’s about validating their emotions and offering support if possible.
    • Avoid giving unsolicited advice or minimizing their feelings. If someone just lost their home, for example, you shouldn’t say “everything happens for a reason” or “at least you’re safe.”
  2. 2
    How should I conclude a condolence message? You can conclude your message with a short and comforting statement. Phrases like “with condolences,” “warmest regards,” “with deep sympathy,” “thinking of you,” or “praying for you” are common and reassuring.
  3. 3
    What’s the purpose of a condolence message? Condolence messages are supposed to offer comfort, show sympathy, and let the grieving person know they’re not alone. This can help them feel loved and supported, giving them hope and strength during a difficult time.
    • “Sharing a condolence letter can help someone remember good times with someone who has passed away,” according to Phillips. “Part of mourning is having memories” that “can help someone move through those stages of grief.” [7]
  4. 4
    When should you send your condolence message? Generally, you should send a condolence message as soon as you hear about someone’s death, or send a card or message a few days after their funeral or memorial service. If you aren’t able to send your condolences immediately, give a genuine apology for the delay and explain that it was difficult to find the right words. It’s never too late to let someone know you acknowledge their loss and are here to support them!
    • You can send your condolences by saying them in person, writing them in a letter, or offering them in a sympathy card. If you’re close to someone, call them or shoot them a text as soon as you find out about their loss.
  5. 5
    Why is it important to send condolence messages? Sending a condolence message is important because it provides comfort and support during a difficult time. This can help strengthen your relationship with the other person, whether they’re a family member, friend, or acquaintance. Here are some other reasons to send a condolence message:
    • Acknowledges loss: Losing a loved one can be isolating, but acknowledging the grieving process can remind someone they’re not alone.
    • Shows sympathy: Taking the time to write a condolence message shows you care about the grieving person’s well-being and sympathize with their loss.
    • Honors the deceased: Sending a condolence message can help keep the deceased’s memory alive and show they made an impact on so many people.
    • Encourages peace and healing: Knowing that others are thinking about them can help someone process their grief and find a way to cope with pain and loneliness.
  6. 6
    How can you honor someone’s memory? Some people find comfort visiting the deceased’s gravesite, being with loved ones, or donating to a cause that the deceased cared about. You may also feel better by practicing self-care or doing comforting activities. These include cooking your favorite meal, listening to music or watching movies that the deceased loved, or writing a letter expressing your feelings.
    • If you want to organize a group activity, you could hold a small memorial service and release lanterns in honor of your passed loved one.
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Condolence Message Creator

  1. Say the right thing when someone you care about is grieving
    Struggling to find the right words after someone’s loss? Whether you're writing a card, a text, or a social media message, this tool helps you express your sympathy with grace and care. Based on your answers, we’ll provide a short message you can copy, personalize, or send as-is.
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      References

      1. ↑ Cole Imperi. Certified Thanatologist. Expert Interview
      2. ↑ Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFP. Clinical Therapist & Adjunct Professor. Expert Interview
      3. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/midlife-reimagined/202312/what-to-say-and-what-not-to-say-to-a-grieving-person
      4. ↑ Cole Imperi. Certified Thanatologist. Expert Interview
      5. ↑ Joseph Phillips. Clinical Therapist, MSW. Expert Interview
      6. ↑ Elisha Goldstein, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist. Expert Interview
      7. ↑ Joseph Phillips. Clinical Therapist, MSW. Expert Interview

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