Should I text condolences?
The answer is yes, if you are comfortable doing so. Texting a condolence is an efficient way to immediately reach out to friends and family. A heartfelt message lets those who are grieving know we are thinking of them. Receiving these short, meaningful messages allows the bereaved to feel comforted and supported. In addition, grieving loved ones are released from the pressure to take or return calls while processing through the initial shock of a death and simultaneously trying to make funeral arrangements. It can also be mentally exhausting to repeatedly explain the circumstances of a death or answer questions regarding funeral plans; therefore, short, thoughtful texts may be welcomed by those who are in the throes of grief.
How to Offer Condolences via Text On Everdays
Everdays facilitates communication between family and friends, so that those who are grieving know that they and the departed are not forgotten. Families use the app to invite relatives and friends to honor the life of their loved one, and, Everdays makes sending condolence messages easier than ever. Invited relatives and friends can extend their condolences to the entire family with a personal post on the public Everdays page.
More like This: Funeral Invitation: Gathering Everyone Together
Examples of Mourning Texts:
When writing a condolence via text, a sincere, meaningful message from the heart is appreciated.
- I feel honored and blessed to have known your sister. I will miss her terribly.
- Your uncle was a kind soul. Our world has lost a good one.
- I will treasure my memories of your aunt. I loved her sense of humor.
- We are deeply pained by this sudden loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
- We’ve lost a wonderful friend. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if I can help in any way.
- I will never forget his smile. My sincere condolences.
- We are grieving the loss of your wife and keeping you in our thoughts.
- We share in your loss with love and friendship.
- I worked with your brother. The office won’t be the same without him! My sincerest sympathy.
- I am saddened to hear about the loss of your grandmother. I know how special she was to you.
- Although I’m not with you physically, please know that you are in my thoughts during this difficult time.
Alternate Ways to Give Condolences
For those who are uncomfortable sending a condolence text or others who may want to follow up a text with a longer message, consider composing a handwritten note or letter. Recipients can draw upon your comforting words at any time. People may not remember the method by which you reached out; however, they will remember how you made them feel. When we express ourselves with sincerity, the message will resonate with those who receive it.
Starter Template
When sending correspondence, try using these tips to make it as personal as possible:
- Refer to the deceased by name.
- Express your condolences.
- Share a memory.
- Acknowledge the deceased’s positive characteristics.
- Offer help.
- End with an expression of support.
Sample Condolence Message
“(1) Dear Beth:
(2) It hurt me deeply to hear about John’s passing. Please know that you and the children are in my thoughts during this difficult time, and I care very much for all of you. (3) I remember the family trip we took to Petoskey. (4) John loved teaching the kids how to skip stones and bait their own finishing lines. You could tell he enjoyed sharing his love of the outdoors with others. My kids still talk fondly about that trip to this day. John touched so many people’s lives. I will miss his jokes and, of course, the pranks he loved to play on all of us.
(5) I can’t imagine the sense of loss you feel right now. You are an incredible mom and friend. As you have been there for me, I will be there for you. I have some fantastic pictures of the trip from Petoskey. If you’d like, I can share them with you. Perhaps we could make a memory board together.
(6) I look forward to smiling and laughing with you as we share some wonderful memories of John. Please know that you and the kids have all my love and support.
Janine”
Suggested Read: How To Write A Meaningful Condolence Letter
There is no right or wrong method to send a condolence. Whether it be a text, note, or letter, the recipient is sure to be grateful for your kind thoughts and words. People who are grieving the loss of a loved one need to know they are supported and cared for. If possible, send the condolence within the first week or two. If you find it difficult to put your words on paper, there is nothing wrong with sending a card. Any means of reaching out shows that you are thinking about a friend or family member during, what is likely, the most challenging time of their life.
