Some experiences are so gutting that we truly don't have the appropriate words to explain our feelings. In times of loss, finding the sentiments and phrases to express your sympathy can feel overwhelming. "Is this message too much or is it not enough?" is something you may find yourself pondering in times of strife. However, a thoughtful condolence message can be simple yet meaningful way to offer comfort and support to someone who is in the thick of grieving. Whether it’s a brief text message, a handwritten card, or a heartfelt note tucked into a beautiful bouquet, your words can provide solace during someone's most challenging moments.

This guide offers over 100 condolence messages categorized by relationship and circumstance, making it easier to convey your sympathy in a way that feels personal and sincere (adjust to your liking, of course). From short, simple messages to religious sentiments, these message examples ensure you’ll find the perfect words to express your support and care.

100 Condolence Messages

 

Simple Condolence Messages

When you want to keep your message brief but still want it to be heartfelt, these short notes are ideal for texts or cards:

  • "I am so incredibly sorry for your loss."
  • "Thinking of you during this difficult time."
  • "My heart goes out to you and your family."
  • "Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time."
  • "You're in my thoughts and prayers."
  • "Whatever you need, I'm here for you."
  • "If there is anything you need, I'm just a call away."
  • "With deepest sympathy."
  • "May the memories of [insert name] comfort you."
  • "You're not alone in this. I'm here when you need me."

Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Parent

Losing a parent is one of life’s most intense and profound losses. These messages acknowledge the deep bond while offering support:

  • "I am so deeply sorry for the loss of your [mother/father]."
  • "Your [mother/father] was truly special and will be deeply missed."
  • "Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time." 
  • "Sending you love as you remember your [mother/father] and their beautiful spirit."
  • "I'll never forget the kindness and warmth of your [mother/father]." 
  • "Your [mother/father] will forever remain in our hearts and memories." 
  • "I extend my deepest sympathies to you and your family during this time."
  • "I cannot imagine the pain of losing a parent. I'm here for you."
  • "Your [mother/father] raised an amazing person. Their legacy lives on in you."
  • "May you find the comfort you seek in the arms of those who love you."

Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Grandparent

The loss of a grandparent feels like losing the anchor of the family. With one of the pillars gone, it is crucial that these messages honor their wisdom and love:

  • "Your grandparents love and legacy will always be with you."
  • "Sending love and support to you and your family during this time."
  • "As you navigate this loss just know I'm here to support you." 
  • "I hope you find peace in the love and lessons they shared." 
  • "Your grandparent was an incredible person that touched so many lives." 
  • "The warmth and wisdom of your grandparent will never be forgotten."
  • "Thinking of you as you honor your grandparent's life and legacy."
  • "May the memories of your grandparent bring you solace during this time." 
  • "I'm so sorry for the loss of [insert name]. They were truly special to us all."
  • "They loved me like I was their grandchild too, thank you for sharing with me."

Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Spouse

Losing a spouse is an unimaginable loss that leaves a deep void. These messages aim to offer support and acknowledge the profound grief:

  • "I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved [insert spouse name]."
  • "Your love for [insert name] is beautiful and inspiring. I'm here for you."
  • "Thinking of you and sending you love during this heartbreaking time." 
  • "Please know that you are not alone. I'm just one call away." 
  • "My heart aches for you and the loss of [insert name]." 
  • "I'm here for anything you need, even if it's just to listen." 
  • "The love you shared will forever be a beautiful legacy." 
  • "Sending love, strength, and support your way." 
  • "[insert name] always knew how to light up a room. We'll continue to do that in their honor."

  • "I'm deeply sorry for the loss of your partner. You complemented each other like no other couple."

Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Sibling

The unique bond between siblings is one of life’s longest and most fulfilling relationships. These messages honor that connection while offering comfort:

  • "I'm deeply sorry for the loss of your [brother/sister]."
  • "Your [insert name] will always be remembered with love." 
  • "Thinking of you as you grieve the loss of [insert name]." 
  • "I'm here to support you however you need during this difficult time."
  • "I don't have the words, but I'm just one call away when you need me." 
  • "Your sibling's light and love will never be forgotten." 
  • "I hope you feel surrounded by love and support as you mourn." 
  • "Sending love and prayers as you honor your sibling's life." 
  • "Your sibling was like one to me. Thank you for sharing their love with me." 
  • "Your [sister/brother] will always be remembered for the amazing person they were. Their spirit lives on in you."

Condolence Messages for the Loss of a Child

The loss of a child is a tragedy where words do not seem sufficient. However, providing support during this unimaginable time should always be done, no matter how difficult. These messages aim to offer comfort in the face of indescribable grief:

  • "There are no words for the pain of losing a child. I'm so sorry for your loss."
  • "Your [son/daughter] was a beautiful person who will never be forgotten." 
  • "I cannot imagine the pain you're experiencing, but I'm here for you." 
  • "May you find comfort in the love and memories you shared with [child's name]."
  • "Please know that you're not alone in this; I'm here to support you."
  • "I'm heartbroken for you and your family during this time of loss." 
  • "Your strength and love for your child are evident, even in this time of sorrow."
  • "I am holding you and your family in my heart and prayers."
  • "Your [son/daughter] brought so much light to the world. They will be missed."
  • "Wishing you comfort and peace in this time of unimaginable sorrow. Whenever you need me, I am there."

Condolence Messages for a Friend

Losing a friend can feel like losing a part of oneself. These messages aim to honor that special bond and offer comfort:

  • "I'm so sorry for the loss of your dear friend."
  • "Your friendship with [insert name] was a beautiful thing to witness. I'm here for you however I can be." 
  • "Thinking of you as you mourn the loss of such a special friend." 
  • "I'm here to support as you navigate this difficult time." 
  • "Your friend's kindness and love touched so many lives. Thinking of you."
  • "Sending you love and strength as you grieve this loss." 
  • "Here or spirit, your friend's love will always be with you." 
  • "Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you during this difficult time."
  • "Your friend's spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew them." 
  • "Please accept my deepest sympathy as you navigate the loss of your friend."

Condolence Messages for a Family Member

The loss of a family member is a deeply personal experience. These messages strive to provide solace and support in a time of strife:

  • "I am so sorry for the loss of your [relation]."
  • "Your [relation] was incredibly special and will be missed by so many." 
  • "Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time." 
  • "I hope you find peace in the love and memories you shared with your [relation]."
  • "Sending you love and prayers as you mourn."
  • "Please know that I am here for you and your family." 
  • "Your [relation] was truly a light to everyone that knew them. Thinking of you during this difficult time." 
  • "Your family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers." 
  • "May the love of those around you bring comfort during this time of sorrow." 
  • "Thinking of you and your family as you celebrate the life of your [relation]."

Condolence Messages for a Colleague

We often spend more time in the office with our co-workers than with our family at home. That’s why losing a colleague can impact both personal and professional spaces. These messages offer support and respect:

  • "I am so sorry for the loss of your colleague, [insert name]."
  • "Your team is in my thoughts as you navigate this loss." 
  • "Please let me know if there is anything I can do to support you." 
  • "Sending my deepest condolences to you and your colleagues." 
  • "I am deeply sorry for your loss and here to listen if you need to talk." 
  • "May the memories with [insert name] bring you peace and comfort." 
  • "I hope you feel supported as you mourn this loss." 
  • "Please know that I am here for you and your work family."
  • "We were saddened to learn of your loss. Please accept our sincerest condolences." 
  • "Sending you love and light as you navigate this difficult transition."

Condolence Messages for a Sudden Loss

A sudden loss can be incredibly shocking and emotionally overwhelming. These messages hope to provide comfort during such an unexpected time.

  • "I am so sorry for your sudden loss. My heart goes out to you."
  • "There are no words for this unimaginable tragedy. I'm here for you." 
  • "I'm heartbroken for you and your family. Please let me know how I can help."
  • "Your loss is deeply felt, and my thoughts are with you."
  • "Sending you strength and love as you navigate this sudden loss."
  • "I am so deeply sorry for the shock and grief you're experiencing."
  • "I cannot imagine what you're going through, but I'm here for you."
  • "May you find peace in the love and memories shared with your loved one."
  • "I don't have the words but I want you to know I'm one call away."
  • "I am so sorry for the shock and grief you're experiencing right now."

Religious Condolence Messages

In times of grief, many turn to religion to cope. For those who seek and find comfort in faith, these religious messages offer a spiritual perspective on loss:

  • "May God's peace and love surround you during this difficult time."
  • "Keeping you in my prayers as you grieve your loved one."
  • "Heaven has gained a beautiful soul and now there's an angel protecting you."
  • "I pray their soul rests well and you find comfort during this time."
  • "I am praying for you and your loved ones."
  • "Sending prayers for peace and solace for your family."
  • "Lean on Him for strength."
  • "May their soul rest in eternal peace."
  • "I am praying for your peace and strength during this trying time."

  • "May our Lord bless and comfort you and your family during this time of grief."

No matter how you choose to express your sympathy, your words and actions can provide immense comfort to someone navigating loss. If you’d like to send flowers to accompany your message, explore our Sympathy Collection to find gorgeous and appropriate arrangements that offer peace and support.

FAQs

What is the best short condolence message?

The best condolence messages are short, simple, yet heartfelt, such as: “I’m so sorry for your loss,” or “Thinking of you during this difficult time.” However, the best condolence messages are the ones you send, so just remember to extend your sentiments.

What should I avoid saying in a condolence message?

Try to avoid clichés like "They’re in a better place," or minimizing someone’s loss by saying, “At least they lived a long life.” Stick to heartfelt and supportive messages rather than empty positivity.

Is it okay to send a condolence text instead of a card?

Yes, a condolence text is appropriate, especially for close friends or family that do not live nearby. A follow-up card or note can add a personal touch if you wish, specifically if you have a close relationship.

How soon should I send a condolence message?

Ideally, consider sending a message within the first few days of hearing about the loss, but a thoughtful note is appreciated at any time. Just don’t forget!

Is it appropriate to send a gift with a condolence message?

Yes, a gift like a bouquet of flowers, a plant, or a sympathy card can accompany your message and provide additional comfort.