If you know someone who just lost someone special, it can be difficult to see them grieve. Unfortunately, you can’t take their pain away, but you can offer your sympathy and condolences. Simply expressing sympathy for the death of a loved one can make a big difference in their day. 

The Power of Condolence Text Messages

The truth is, you don’t have to leave a long, drawn-out voicemail or send a card with pages and pages of words. Sometimes, a short and sweet text message is all it takes. When someone is grieving, they may not want to talk and text messages offer a way to reach out to them during a difficult time.

When to Send Condolence Text Messages

Understanding when a condolence text message is appropriate depends on your relationship with the grieving person. If you regularly communicate via text, a supportive sympathy message is a thoughtful way to express your condolences. However, if you’ve never exchanged text messages before, a condolence text might feel impersonal. Similarly, for very close family members or best friends, a text message may not be enough; a more personal touch like a phone call or a sympathy card would be more fitting.

Example Condolence Text Messages: Offering Sympathy

1. I’m so sorry to hear about your [uncle’s, aunt’s, father’s] passing. They will be greatly missed. 
2. Please know that I’m thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. 
3. Your mother was a loving and caring woman. We will all miss her dearly. 
4. I’m devastated by the news of your friend’s passing. You’re in my thoughts. 
5. My heart aches for you and your loved ones right now. Please know that I’m sending all of my love and thoughts to you. 
6. I’m so saddened by the news. I’d love to [bring by a meal, help run any errands you might need help with, take you out for coffee] next week. 
7. It’s difficult to find the right words to say, but please know I’m sending all my love your way. 
8. Please accept my deepest sympathies as you grieve the loss of your sweet grandmother. 
9. We’re toasting your brother and celebrating his beautiful life right now, just as we know he would have wanted. Take care, and know I’m sending my love. 
10. My heart goes out to you and your family. You have our deepest sympathies.
    

Example Condolence Text Messages: Offering Condolence

11. I offer you my heartfelt condolences. May your beautiful sister rest in peace. 
12. I feel honored that I had the opportunity to get to know and love your aunt. She was a bright light in this world, and her absence will be felt by many.  
13. I understand you may need your space right now. Please know that I’m always thinking of you. I love you, and I’m sending my condolences. 
14. My family and I are so sorry for your loss. May peace be with you during this difficult time. 
15. My heart hurts just thinking of what you’re going through. If I could, I would take away your pain. I love you, and I’m [praying for, thinking of] you. 
16. I was deeply saddened to hear of your grandfather’s passing. He was a wonderful man, and I’m so glad I had the chance to spend time with him. 
17. Our camping trips will never be the same without your cousin there. You have my deepest condolences. 

Example Condolence Text Messages: Remembrance

18. I’ll never forget your daughter’s kindness and compassion. May you find comfort in knowing she left a beautiful mark on everyone she met. 
19. We may have lost your father in the physical sense, but his spirit will live on through all the lessons he taught us over the years.
20. Words can’t describe how sad I am to hear of your granddaughter’s passing. I pray you find strength and comfort during this time. 
21. We are all going to miss George’s goofy sense of humor and bear hugs. May we find comfort in keeping his memory alive. 
22. I loved your son like he was my own. I am absolutely heartbroken. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. 
23. I’ll always remember John’s big heart and contagious laugh. I’m [praying for or thinking of] you and your family. 
24. I hope the memories of your grandson will provide you with peace and comfort during your time of sorrow. You and your family are in my [prayers or thoughts]. 

Example Condolence Text Messages: Offering Support

25. I’m so sad about your loss. I know nothing will make you feel better, but I’m sending over a casserole for your family this evening, so dinner is one less thing you have to worry about tonight. 
26. I’m always here for you. I’d love to check in and see how you are doing. Can I give you a call one day next week? 
27. I’m so sorry for your loss. I love you, and I’m here for you always. I’ll call you next week to check-in.
28. You are a great friend, and I hate to see you going through this. Can I take you out for coffee this week?
29. I know I can’t do anything to make you feel better, but please know I’m sharing in your grief. Sandy was an incredible friend, and we’ll all miss her so much. 
30. With a heavy heart, I send my love and sympathy to you and your family.

Sending a condolence text message can be a small yet significant way to express your sympathy and support to a grieving loved one. Consider your relationship and the appropriateness of a text message in each situation. Finding the right words to express how you feel can be tricky, but remember, even a short message can provide comfort and show that you care. Use these examples as a guide to help you find the right words during a difficult time.