150+ Touching & Sympathetic Messages to Send a Grieving Friend

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Give a grieving loved one the support they need with these personal, heartfelt notes
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When someone passes away, it can be devastating for those left behind. Sending a short condolence message to a friend can be a meaningful way to show you love and care about them. It’s not always easy to find the right words when someone’s going through a difficult time—that’s why we’ve compiled a list of simple phrases you can send your friend in a text message or a sympathetic card. We interviewed clinical therapist and social worker Joseph Phillips to see how you can write a supportive condolence message and show your friend you’re thinking of them.

1

“Sending you lots of love and support today.”

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  1. When someone’s going through a difficult time, a simple message can go a long way in making them feel supported and loved. Reach out to your friend and tell them how sorry you feel for their loss, grief, and pain.
    • “You and your family are in my thoughts. Sending you much love, strength, and comfort.”
    • “My deepest sympathy for your loss. Please let us know if we can help. We are just a phone call or text away.”
    • “Please know that I'm thinking of you. These are trying times, and I'm here for you if you ever need me, no matter the hour.”
    • “No one can ever prepare us for the loss of a loved one. Your strength is admirable. Remember that I'm here for you.”
    • “I don't know how you feel, but I am here to help in any way I can.”
    • “My thoughts are with you and your grieving family during this time. May all the loving memories carry us through.”
    • “You're in my thoughts. Let me know if I can help with anything.”
    • “Please know that I'm thinking of you and hoping for healing wherever it is possible.”
    • “We are so sorry for your loss. Sending you love and support during this difficult time.”
    • “Please know that we are here for you. Sending our sympathy and love to you and your family members.”
    • “Sending my most heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. ❤❤”
    • “If you were here, I’d hug you. I’m so sorry for your loss.”
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2

“Thinking of you and sending love and support.”

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  1. Signing a sympathy card can be a meaningful way to show you care and let your friend know that you’re thinking about them. If the two of you are close, check in on them later with a call or a thoughtful text message.
    • “I hate to see you hurting but know it’s part of the healing process. Take all the time you need. Love you.
    • “We’ve been friends through thick and thin—just know I’m here no matter what.”
    • “I am sharing in your sadness as you remember your loved one.”
    • “Wishing you all the peace and comfort possible.”
    • “Caring thoughts are with you during this difficult time.”
    • “You are not alone, I am here for you.”
    • “Gone, but never far from our hearts. Deepest sympathy for your loss.”
    • “Sending over my most heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.”
    • “Losing someone so close is so hard. I will be here to support you. Sending you love.”
    • “Sharing in your sorrow and here for you in the days ahead.”
    • “Be kind and gentle with yourself. Take your time and know that you have my full support.”
    • “Thinking of you and sending my love during this difficult time.”
    • “Deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss.”
    • “Sending you hugs and comforting thoughts.”
    • “Words cannot express how saddened we are to learn of your loss. Please take your time. We are all here for you.”
    • “Wishing you feelings of comfort, moments of peace, and memories of joy during this difficult time.”
3

“I'm so sorry for your loss. Please don't hesitate to call if I can help with anything.”

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  1. Offer to help your friend out during these difficult times. When writing a condolence message, clinical therapist and social worker Joseph Phillips recommends “making sure that that person knows that [you’re] there and available for support in whatever” they need. Offer to bring by meals, help with their daily tasks, or just be present if they need someone to talk to.
    • “Though I will never know the pain you're feeling, please know I'm here for you. If you need anything, I’m just a phone call or a text away.”
    • “Please know that however you're feeling right now—sad, numb, guilty, tired, angry—it's normal. There's no right way to feel. I love you and I'm happy to be your shoulder to cry on.”
    • “Be kind and gentle with yourself. You have my deepest condolences and support.”
    • “I'm just a phone call or a text away. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need someone to talk to.”
    • “This is beyond difficult. My heart goes out to you during this sad time.”
    • “Please know I'm thinking of you and praying for you, and if there's anything else I can do, don't hesitate to let me know.”
    • “We’ve shared so much through the years and I’m here now to share the weight of your loss. Whatever you need, I’m standing by.”
    • “I know times like this are so tough, and I hate that you're going through this. If you’d like someone to bring you meals, I'd love to help. Please let me know.”
    • “You know that I'm always up until at least midnight—please know that you can give me a call if you need to talk to someone, even if it's super late.”
    • “We are shocked and saddened to learn of your loss. Please know that we’re thinking of you and are here for anything you may need.”
    • “Remember that we love and care about you. If you need someone to walk your dog, pick up the kids, or just sit by you, I’ll be there.”
    • Reader Poll: We asked 204 wikiHow readers how they have texted support to an upset friend and 51% of them agreed that the best way to help is by offering a listening ear. [Take Poll]
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4

Sympathetic Quotes

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  1. Finding the right words to express your sympathy during a time of grief can be difficult, but one of these quotes might help. Consider adding a short message, like “I’m sorry for your loss” or “Wishing you comfort during this difficult time” after the quote for a unique and personal touch. [1]
    • “Death is a challenge. It tells us not to waste time. It tells us to tell each other right now that we love each other.” — Leo Buscaglia
    • "There is love in holding and there is love in letting go." — Elizabeth Berg
    • “Wishing you strength for today and hope for tomorrow.” — Renee O’Neill
    • “A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.” — Maya Angelou
    • “If there is a heaven, it's certain our animals are to be there. Their lives become so interwoven with our own, it would take more than an archangel to detangle them." - Pam Brown.
    • "All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on." — Havelock Ellis
    • "We must embrace pain and burn it as fuel for our journey." – Kenji Miyazawa
    • "End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take. The gray rain-curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass, and then you see it." — J.R.R. Tolkien
    • "There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart." — Gandhi Mahatma
    • "Unable are the Loved to die/ For Love is Immortality." — Emily Dickinson, Poem 809
    • "Death ends a life, not a relationship." — Mitch Albom
    • “To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” – Thomas Campbell
5

“May God's love and grace surround you during this difficult time.”

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  1. If your friend finds comfort in their religion, use their spirituality to give them hope and solace . Offer to pray for them and let them know that you’re a safe space to express their feelings.
    • “May the Lord ease the pain you’re feeling over your loss, and bring you peace, comfort, and strength in ways that will see you through.”
    • “I know your grief must seem insurmountable. Please know that I'm thinking of you and praying for you.”
    • “I am praying for you to find healing through the Lord’s infinite love. Lend Him your worries and take comfort that He is always by your side.”
    • “May God bring you peace and comfort during this incredibly difficult time. She was a special person and we have so many wonderful memories that will live on.”
    • “Sending you positive thoughts and lots of prayers.”
    • “I cannot imagine the pain and heartache you’re feeling. I am praying for your peace and comfort.”
    • “I offer my heartfelt condolences and pray that God's peace will fill your heart.”
    • “Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”
    • “I’m sorry for your loss. I’m praying for God to give you the strength to get through this difficult time.”
    • “I pray that you will feel the comforting presence of God's love and peace as you grieve.”
    • “May God's strength sustain you and give you the comfort you need during this difficult time.”
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6

“Your partner was such a special person. I’m so sorry for your loss.”

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  1. Clinical therapist and social worker Joseph Phillips says that “part of mourning is having memories” that can “help someone kind of move through those stages of grief.” Try sharing a happy story or favorite memory of your friend’s spouse to help them come to terms with the loss.
    • “I’m so sorry for your loss. The two of you were virtually inseparable. May all your wonderful memories comfort you during this heartbreaking time.”
    • “Our sincerest condolences for the loss of your beloved spouse. He was an amazing person and we have many loving memories of our time together. May he rest in peace.”
    • “There are no words for the loss of your wife, a person who was cherished by everyone who knew her. Our thoughts and love are with you in this time of sorrow.”
    • “I know your heart is broken and your life has turned inside out. I love you and am thinking of you.”
    • “Someone who shared so much life with you will always be a part of you. Bonds like yours are forever.”
    • “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.”
    • “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.”
    • “She shined so bright that the memory of her light will never dim. Wishing you strength and comfort during these difficult days.”
    • “Our deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved husband. Our thoughts are with you.”
    • “I’m deeply sorry for the loss of your beloved partner. You complemented each other like no other couple I know.”
    • “No words can express how sorry I am for the loss of your wife. I didn’t know her personally, but I know how much you loved her. I’m here for you.”
7

“Your dad was a special person and will be missed by so many.”

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  1. The loss of a parent can be devastating. Focus the condolence message on your friend and their grieving family and provide them with a supportive space so they can open up when they’re ready. [2]
    • “It’s hard to say goodbye and even harder when it’s to someone like your dad. He was one-of-a-kind and will be missed by everyone.”
    • “I’m so sorry for your loss. I hope memories of the happy times you had together can be of some comfort during this incredibly difficult time.”
    • “May the memories of your dad bring a smile to your face during these dark days.”
    • “Your father was a wonderful man and a beautiful soul. The world is less bright without him. Please reach out if you ever need me.”
    • “Your father was always so happy to put everyone at ease with a joke or a hug. I'm so sad for you and sorry such a wonderful person is gone.”
    • “Though I didn’t know your father, I know you and that means he must have been amazing. I’m so sad for your loss.”
    • “May you find peace and comfort in knowing that your father is now at peace.”
    • “Your dad’s amazing personality lives on through you. Sending you love during this difficult time.”
    • “Your father will forever remain in our hearts and memories.”
    • “Your father was such an inspiration in my life —I’ll never forget the valuable lessons he taught me. Sending you love.”
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8

“Your mom was such a wonderful person who will be deeply missed.”

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  1. When crafting your message, express your concern for your friend and try to be genuine about the situation. If you’re not sure what to say or you don’t know your friend’s mother, admit that in your message and let your friend know you care about them. [3]
    • “Your mother was an inspiring woman. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”
    • “I loved your mother's smile and her welcoming personality. I can't believe she's gone. I'm so sorry for your loss.”
    • “Mothers never truly leave us. You need only look in your heart and she’ll be there. So sad for your loss.”
    • “Your stories of your mom make it clear that she was a warm and welcoming person. I see that spirit live on in you, and I'm so sorry you have to suffer through this time.”
    • “I wanted you to know that I'm remembering your mother today, as I'm sure you are. If you'd like to grab a coffee and share memories about her, I'm available.”
    • “Your mother touched so many lives and will always be remembered with love.”
    • “It was truly a pleasure to work with your mom. She will be missed by many.​”
    • “I'm sure you made your mom so proud. I'm sorry her light is gone from your life.”
    • “There’s nothing to say to ease the loss of a mother. We are here for you and send our deepest sympathy to you and your family.”
    • “I know this is a loss that hits you so deeply. You are a great mother, and I know the grief at losing your own mom must be difficult to navigate.”
    • “Your mother was an amazing woman. My best to you and your family during this difficult time.”
9

“The loss of a child is heartbreaking. Sending you all our love.”

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  1. To show your friend support, clinical therapist and social worker Joseph Phillips suggests “helping them understand that the things that they're going through are normal.” Express sympathy for any emotions they might be feeling and let them know you’re thinking about them.
    • “The world has taken your most precious love. No matter if you’re feeling angry, sad, or at peace, your feelings are valid. We love you and are thinking of you.”
    • “Your little one's life was a blessing, and their memory will continue to bring comfort and joy to those who knew them. I am so sorry for your loss.”
    • “The pain of losing a child is indescribable, and my heart goes out to you during this incredibly difficult time.”
    • “I can’t find meaning in what has happened. I love you and will be thinking of you. If you need a listening ear, please feel free to reach out.”
    • “Your daughter was a beautiful soul who touched so many lives. She will be deeply missed.”
    • “Words cannot express the depth of my sorrow for your loss. I am thinking of you and your family during this heartbreaking time.”
    • “Your son was taken from this world far too soon. I am so sorry for any pain you might be feeling right now.”
    • “There are no words to describe such a loss. I cannot understand what you're going through, but I love you and am thinking of you.”
    • “Your daughter was a remarkable person, and I feel privileged to have known her. My deepest condolences to you and your family.”
    • “Your child was an incredible person who touched the lives of so many. I am so sorry for your loss.”
    • “The loss of a child is a pain that words cannot heal. There’s no right way to grieve—any emotions you have are completely normal. My heart goes out to you.”
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10

“Losing a brother is horrible, and I'm sorry you're having to go through it.”

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  1. The grieving process varies from person to person, but it often continues long after the funeral. After the initial shock of the loss has worn off, try sending your friend a quick message, dropping by their house, or sending cards or letters to show you’re still thinking about them. [4]
    • “I didn't know your brother well, but I know that you loved him. I'm so sorry for your loss, and I hope you'll reach out if there's anything I can do.”
    • “Losing a sibling is so horrible, and I'm sorry you're having to go through it.”
    • “Brothers are special. Yours was exceptional. Wishing you peace and comfort at this sad time.”
    • “I know your heart is breaking now. If there's anything I can do, please let me know.”
    • “I heard about your brother, I’m so sorry for your loss. I'm only a phone call or a text away if you want to talk, scream, or cry.”
    • “In loving memory of your brother, someone who brought a smile to every occasion. He’ll be so missed. Thinking of you.”
    • “I cannot imagine a world without your brother, and I know you can't either. The memories of him will always be with us, and I was so thankful to know him.”
    • “I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your brother. Please know that I’m here to offer support, a listening ear, and a shoulder to lean on.”
    • “I’m so sorry to hear about your brother. I’ve worked with him for years, and he will be greatly missed.”
    • “Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your brother. He was such a kind, considerate person. Sending you my love.”
11

“Your sister was a wonderful person and I’m sorry for your loss.”

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  1. Reach out to your friend to show them you care after their sister has passed. Losing a sibling can be incredibly heartbreaking. Show your friend that you support them by acknowledging just how bad the loss is. [5] You might say “My heart is breaking for you in this difficult time” or something as simple as “I’m so sorry for your loss.”
    • “She left us all far too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you cope with the loss of your sister.”
    • “I wish I had the right words, but I just don't. Just know that I care, and I want to help in any way I can.”
    • “I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved sister. Her presence brought light and joy into many lives. Please know that my thoughts are with you.”
    • “Losing a sibling is a horrible experience. I offer my sincere condolences, and I hope you find comfort in the love and support of those around you.”
    • “Losing a sister is hard, but losing a friend can be even harder. She meant so much to all of us, but I know that your sister meant the most to you.”
    • “Although I never met your sister, I feel like I knew her through you. I’m so sad for your loss and wish you strength in the days ahead.”
    • “I’m so heartbroken over your loss. You and your family must feel devastated right now. I’m so sorry.”
    • “Your sister was my best friend, and I’ll never forget her. I am so sorry for your loss.”
    • “I love you, and I know she loved you, too. I'm so sorry that the world has lost such a bright light.”
    • “Your sister was sincerely one of my favorite people and I know she was yours, too. Hoping the love of friends and family see you through this sad time.”
    • “Losing a sibling is extremely difficult. I am so sorry for your loss.”
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12

“We share your sorrow. Shadow was truly an incredible cat.”

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  1. Offer kind and respectful words that are personalized to your friend’s pet and let them know that you’re thinking about them. Acknowledge your friend’s loss by inserting their pet’s name and a couple of their traits into the message. [6]
    • “You and Snowball are true friends. No matter what, she will be in your heart forever.”
    • “As someone who lost a pet recently, my heart breaks for you. Hold onto the good memories together and know you'll get through this.”
    • “I’m so sorry for your loss. Max was a loyal and faithful friend. Keep the memories of him safe in your heart.”
    • “Sending you love while your best friend crosses the rainbow bridge.”
    • “I am so sorry for your loss. I know Skippy was much more than a dear friend, he was your whole world. Please don't hesitate to reach out.”
    • “Never was a pet better cared for or loved. So sorry for your loss.”
    • “Lucky was so lucky to have chosen you. She will be greatly missed.”
    • “I’m here for you. Take your time. I know how much Bella meant to you.”
    • “It’s never easy losing a family member. You gave Cleo a wonderful life, and her friendly and sweet spirit will be missed.”
    • “I know you're dealing with a broken heart but please know this too shall pass. Sending out my love and support during this painful time.”
    • “I am so sorry for your loss. Your dog is gone, but your bond and love will never fade.”


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      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about communication skills, check out our in-depth interview with Joseph Phillips .

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.countryliving.com/life/g32179146/sympathy-quotes/
      2. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/a40119939/condolence-messages/
      3. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/grief/helping-someone-who-is-grieving.htm
      4. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/grief/helping-someone-who-is-grieving.htm
      5. ↑ https://time.com/5118994/advice-for-helping-grieving-friend/
      6. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/pets/a43742319/what-to-say-when-someone-loses-a-pet/

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