Condolences & Sympathy: Text Examples (SMS, Letter)

How to Write Condolences: Text Examples for Expressing Sympathy by SMS or on a Card

News of a death often catches us completely unprepared. At such a difficult moment it's extremely hard to find the right words that express deep sympathy without sounding like an empty, formal cliché. A condolence is an expression of sincere compassion, respect for the deceased and, above all, essential support for the bereaved during their hardest moments.

If you can't attend the funeral in person and are looking for the right words for the family, we've put together an extensive overview of texts and advice on how to approach expressing sympathy with as much tact as possible.

Florist's Advice: What's the Difference Between a Ribbon and a Condolence Note?

Tip from Jana (KvětinyExpres.cz funeral floristry specialist): „In my many years of experience I see that customers often struggle with where to place which text. I'd like to clear that up. The printed funeral ribbon, which is tied firmly to the bouquet and is visible to all mourners at the funeral, should carry only a very short, clear message – most often 'In farewell' and your name. By the way, we print these funeral ribbon inscriptions completely free with every funeral bouquet and wreath (though a ribbon can also be bought separately).

The condolence card, on the other hand, is highly private. We place it in a discreet, sealed envelope that is handed exclusively to the closest family. This is where you can write at much greater length and express sincere sympathy away from the eyes of strangers.“

Text Examples for Expressing Sympathy

When writing, don't be afraid to be authentic and natural. There's no single perfect text. Here is extensive inspiration on how to write condolences, sorted by your relationship to the deceased:

1. Personal and Heartfelt Expressions of Sympathy (For Family and Friends)

These words should fully reflect the deeper relationship you shared with the deceased and their family. They can be sent as a letter, or included on a card with delivered funeral casket bouquets.

„Words simply cannot express the sorrow we feel right now. [Name] will remain forever in our hearts as a wonderful and kind person.“
„We will never forget his/her infectious laugh and the kindness he/she spread around. We wish all of you in the family great strength.“
„This loss simply cannot be put into words. I want you to know I'm here for you, whenever you need anything at all.“
„We remember [Name] with tremendous love and respect. It was a great honour to have known him/her in life.“

2. Formal and Business Condolences (Colleagues, Business Partners)

Fitting, respectful texts for formal letters sent on behalf of your company.

„It was with deep sorrow that we received the news of your husband's passing. Please accept our deepest, most sincere condolences.“
„The team at [Company Name] extends its sincere condolences to you and your entire family. We deeply valued everything [Name] did for us during our time working together.“
„The news of the sudden passing has deeply affected us. We wish you great strength in overcoming this sorrowful time.“

3. Short Condolences (Ideal for a Small Sympathy Card in an Envelope)

„With deep sympathy and sincere condolences.“
„Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.“
„We remember with love and respect.“
„You remain with us in our memories.“

4. SMS Condolences (When Is It Appropriate and What to Write?)

In today's fast-paced world it's now entirely socially acceptable to send a quick message (SMS, WhatsApp), especially if you don't want to disturb the family with a constantly ringing phone in the first hours after the announcement.

„Hi [Name], I've just heard the sad news. I'm so terribly sorry. I'm thinking of all of you.“
„My thoughts are with you in your grief. If you need anything at all (running errands, watching the kids, sorting out paperwork), I'm available around the clock. Take care.“
„Please accept my deepest condolences. I wish you great strength in the days ahead.“

5. Condolences with a Spiritual Dimension

If you know that the deceased or their family were devout, you may choose a more spiritual form.

„May he/she rest in peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.“
„The Lord has taken a pure soul unto Himself. Sincere condolences and God's comfort to you all.“
„May your faith give you the strength to overcome this difficult time. We remember with love and in prayer.“

Save Yourself the Worry: We'll Deliver a Bouquet with Your Condolences Straight to the Ceremony

An SMS alone is often not enough, and attending in person isn't always possible. Flowers have long been a symbol of respect and can express exactly what words cannot. We fully understand the gravity of the situation and want to spare you any worry at this difficult time.

Choose a dignified funeral bouquet or wreath from our range and simply write your personal condolence text in the order notes. We will handwrite it beautifully onto a sympathy card and place it in a discreet envelope.

How does delivery work? Give us the exact address of the funeral hall (or church) and the time of the ceremony. Our Airway service delivers the flowers ahead of time and our courier hands them directly to the venue staff. The flowers thus arrive completely discreetly and perfectly arranged, before the first mourners even arrive.