Condolence Letter Examples

Condolence letters are sent as a consolation to the family members of the deceased. Writing a good condolence letter requires tact and proper etiquette. Condolence letter examples provided here will help you write one.
Condolence letters are used to express support and sympathy to the person who has lost a dear one. Condolence letters need to be written tactfully, with a specific pattern. There is a certain etiquette you need to follow, when writing a condolence message. Firstly, remember that it is highly recommended to write a personal handwritten letter rather than typing it out. The letter should be short, precise and simple; avoid flowery language. Secondly, you should clearly mention your relationship with the deceased person. In the paragraphs, you can mention the deceased person's qualities and strengths; a personal experience related to him/her. Thirdly, condolence letter closing has to be personal, hence, do not end the letter with just your signature. Lastly, make sure the letter or the wordings are heartfelt. The following is a template or layout of a condolence letter that you must follow when writing a condolence message.

Condolence Letter Template / Layout
  • Address
  • Date
  • Opening salutation
  • First Paragraph (Your introduction to the receiver, relationship with the deceased, etc.)
  • Second Paragraph (Experience with the deceased, his/her qualities, etc.)
  • Closing Paragraph (Closing lines, offering help, etc.)
  • Closing salutation
  • Sender's name and signature
Condolence Letter Examples

Now, let us take a look at some condolence letter samples. You can take a cue from these condolence letter examples and write your own letter.


Address
Date

Dear____________

I was very sad to hear about the demise of ________. He was a kind and gentle person. I will miss his generous nature.

I remember one incident when____________. (mention your experience with the deceased person)

Please let me know if I can be of any help in these difficult times. May God bless you and your family.

Sincerely Yours,
(sender's name and signature)


Address
Date

Dear____________

I am deeply saddened to hear about the sudden demise of ________. I had the honor to know him and had the greatest respect for him.

I know it is a great loss for you in particular. I had spent some memorable time playing golf with him and will truly miss him. He was _______ (mention some qualities of the deceased).

Please pass on my sincere condolences to your family members. If you would like me to help in funeral plans, please let me know.

Sincere Condolences,
(sender's name and signature)


Address
Date

Dear____________

I would like to express my sincere condolences on the passing of your ________.

Although I did not know him well, I know that he was a respected member in the community and his own profession.

I hope you all, family members, will rely on each other to get through this. You and your family are in my prayers.

With Deepest Sympathy,
(sender's name and signature)


Address
Date

Dear____________

Although we have never met, I and your son/daughter/sister/brother (whichever applicable) had met at ______ and were regular correspondents. I am very sad to hear about his demise.

_______ (name of the deceased) was an exceptional friend. He was very energetic and a kind soul. He was someone I could always count on.

My deepest sympathies are with you and your family. Please do not hesitate to call, should you think of anything I can do to help.

Wishing You God's Peace,
(sender's name and signature)

Miscellaneous Phrases

The aforementioned examples will be helpful to you. If you are writing your own letter, then the following are some phrases that you can use in your letter.
  • I have been thinking about you and your family since I learned of ________ death.
  • I hope you all, family members, will rely on each other to get through this.
  • On behalf of all members of the company, please allow me to express my sympathies to you.
  • (Name)_______ was a valuable member of the company and many people will miss him/her.
  • I know the grief is greater, but, I hope you will find peace in each other's company / in your memories.
  • I am at loss of words.
  • I realize that you have a lost a beloved and no one will be able to replace him/her.
  • You have my sympathy, love/friendship and support.
  • I will help with planning and preparation of the funeral.
The letter can be attached to a bouquet or simply sent as a short sympathy note. Although a condolence letter is short, it conveys a lot. A heartfelt letter of condolence will convey your sympathy and support to the family of the deceased. Take care!
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Last Updated: 3/22/2012
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