This is very helpful. I guess there is no perfect way to handle these things since every situation is different. However, any suggestions can be revamped/redesigned to fit.
Thanks for sharing.

What to write to someone who has lost a loved one?

It makes sense for a member of the clergy to say that the person is in a better place. In our work, On Grief and Grieving, we share that the stages were not meant to be neat.

Some of these things have been helpful to some people, but the way in which they are said has the opposite effect than what was originally intended. I am here to help in any way I can, but I don’t know how you feel, but I am here to help. She lived a long life, many people die young, she was a good person, God wanted her to be with him, when in the position of wanting to help a friend or loved one in grief, often times our first desire is to try to fix the situation.

Being a supportive emotional caregiver has more to do with knowing the right thing to say than it does with knowing the right thing to do. They want to fix the loss in the five areas of grief. We created this directory because our most frequent request is for free in-person local grief support groups.

I teach counselors how to help clients. Those dealing with loss can use most of these tools. You can get free book chapters and videos to deal with loss.

Words to Comfort Someone Who Lost a Loved One

There’s nothing more heartwarming than knowing that someone understands how you feel right now and won’t hesitate to let you know they’re thinking of you too.

Words to Say When People You Know Lose Their Mom or Dad

“This isn’t easy to do, but I wanted to reach out and see if you’re doing ok. Anytime I think of what you’re going through, it brings a lot of sadness. I know the last few days have been hard on you and your family.”

“I heard about your loss, and I wanted to tell you how sorry I am. You may not know this, but if there is anything you need please don’t hesitate to call me.”

Words to Say When People You Know Lose Their Partner or Spouse

“Losing a partner/a spouse is one of the most difficult things to go through in life. I want you to know that I am here for you, and if you need anything at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I want you to know that no matter how hopeless things might seem right now, life will get better.”

“I can’t even imagine what you’re going through right now. It sounds like it’s been a really difficult few weeks for you and your family. Please know that you are not alone in this.”

“I’m so sorry for your loss. I know that you’re going through a rough time right now and it may seem like there’s no light at the end of the tunnel. I’m here for you and I want to let you know that your loved one will never be forgotten. They will always live on in our memories.”

“I wish there was something I could say or do that will make this any easier, but I know there’s not. I just want you to know that I’m always here for you and I’ll be with you every step of the way.”

“I am always here for you if you ever need anything at all. All I want is for your family and friends to help take care of each other during this difficult time.”

Comforting Texts to Send to a Close Friend

When a close friend has a death in the family, it’s sometimes difficult to approach him with the right words. Dealing with death takes the fun out of friendship, and your response to the news will depend on your communication style. A text message is generally appropriate while avoiding the use of emojis.

A simple “sorry for your loss” text gets the conversation started. It expresses regret and tells him that you’re thinking of him. Consider following up your text with a phone call or visiting with a sympathy gift basket or care package.

• "My deepest sympathies go out to you, my friend. May you find comfort and peace during this difficult time. Know that I’m here for you."
• "I heard the news, my friend. I can’t even begin to understand what you are feeling, but I want you to know that I’m here for you. I’m sending you my prayers and condolences. I’ll be checking in on you to see how you are doing."
• "I was deeply saddened to hear about your brother’s passing. He was like a brother to me. Please offer my sincerest condolences to your family. You have my deepest sympathy."
• "I’m sorry for your loss. Please accept my sincerest sympathy."
• "I’m so sorry to hear this sad news. I’m thinking of you and your family at this time. Please let me know how I can help."

6. “My deepest sympathies go out to you, my friend. May you find comfort and peace during this difficult time. Know that I’m here for you.”

7. “I heard the news, my friend. I can’t even begin to understand what you are feeling, but I want you to know that I’m here for you. I’m sending you my prayers and condolences. I’ll be checking in on you to see how you are doing.”

8. “I was deeply saddened to hear about your brother’s passing. He was like a brother to me. Please offer my sincerest condolences to your family. You have my deepest sympathy.”

This type of text message honors the death of their loved one, offers condolences to the family as a whole, and also adds a personal touch about what the person who died meant to you.

Messages to Avoid

• “I know how you feel.” People experience hardship in their own way, at their own pace. While empathy is a good thing, this card is about them and their loved one, not you.
• “Just let me know how I can help.” Offering help is great, but leaving it up to your loved one can feel overwhelming. Instead, simply let them know that you are there for them. Next time you see them, offer a specific way that you can be of assistance.
• “Everything happens for a reason.” This implies there is a good reason for your loved one’s pain. Don’t shrug off their hardship; recognize it with a gentle, “we’ll get through this together.”

“ Just send the card, they can look at it when they need to feel loved. Too many times we don’t send the cards, but they are a link to others.”

Michele Stoumbaugh

I have experienced that if you don’t get to send a card within a couple of weeks of their loved ones passing, send a card at a later time, my thought is that a loving note is never wasted, you can look at them anytime.”

Susan B.

Writing a Sympathy Note

A handwritten sympathy note is a shorter form of a condolence letter. It can be just as meaningful to the bereaved. It is often a nice touch to include inside a sympathy card.

These letters are usually offered in the first two weeks following the death of a loved one. A convenient way to deliver your letter is by dropping it in a basket for cards at a funeral or memorial service. But, of course, you can also mail it.

Condolence letters usually contain an expression of sympathy, a note of the deceased’s special qualities, a special memory you have of them, and a specific offer to support the family.

References:

https://www.customersandcontent.com/writing/what-to-write-to-someone-who-has-lost-a-loved-one/
https://www.myclevermind.com/knowledge/words-to-comfort-someone-who-lost-a-loved-one/
https://www.joincake.com/blog/how-to-comfort-someone-who-is-grieving-through-text/
https://www.caringbridge.org/resources/what-to-write-sympathy-card/
https://www.verywellhealth.com/writing-a-condolence-letter-1132543