A condolence card should express sympathy and support. Depending on your relationship with the deceased or their loved ones, you might share a personal memory, offer words of comfort, or simply express your sorrow. The most important thing is to be sincere and compassionate.

Use a respectful and gentle tone. You can acknowledge the long, meaningful life of the person and offer comfort to the bereaved.

Here is an example: “We remember a life well lived with deep gratitude. Our thoughts are with you.”

Here are some heartfelt phrases:

“In loving memory.”

“What remains is love and beautiful memories.”

“You may be gone from sight, but you are never gone from our hearts.”

“The ones we love never truly leave us.”

In some cultures, it's customary to include a small amount of money as a gesture of support (e.g. for flowers or a memorial donation). Amounts typically range from €10 to €50, depending on your relationship to the deceased. When in doubt, keep it simple and discreet.

You can include a thoughtful note such as:

“Instead of flowers, please accept this small gift as a token of our sympathy.”

“We would like to make a small contribution in [Name]’s memory.”

Keep it simple and respectful:

To the family of [Surname]

To Mr/Mrs [Full Name]

You may also add “With deepest sympathy” below the name. Use a neutral-coloured envelope without decoration.

Keep your message warm but reserved. Here is an example:

“We were deeply saddened to hear of your husband’s passing. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.”

Finish your condolence card with a comforting phrase:

“Wishing you strength and peace.”

“With heartfelt sympathy.”

“In loving memory.”

Sudden losses are especially difficult. A message like this can be supportive:

“We are deeply shocked and saddened. Our hearts go out to you and your family.”

Close your message of your condolence card with one of the following:

“With deepest sympathy, [Your Name]”

“Thinking of you, [Your Name]”

“With love and condolences, [Name of your family or group]”

Whether you should include money in a sympathy card depends on the situation. In many regions, it is customary to enclose money for funeral flowers or a donation in memory of the deceased.

Suggested wording for including money in a sympathy card:

Instead of flowers, we would like to express our condolences with this small contribution.