Writing Sympathy Thank You Notes after a Funeral

While it may be difficult to write thank you notes at a time of grief, it is important to acknowledge acts of kindness and support. A family member or close friend can write the notes on your behalf if you are not up to the task.

Who Should Receive a Sympathy Thank You Note?

A thank you / acknowledgement note should be sent to anyone that has done something extra, including:

• People who have sent or brought flowers
• People who have made memorial donations to a charity
• People who have helped out in some way (e.g., brought food, provided transportation, done baby-sitting, etc.)
• The Pallbearers
• Clergy presiding at the funeral.

It is not necessary to send a thank you note to everyone attending the funeral / visitation or to those that sent you a sympathy card. However, you may wish to acknowledge something extra such as receipt of a photo of the deceased or a poignant memory shared.

What Do You Say in a Sympathy Thank You Note?

A simple 1 to 3 sentence thank you is all that is needed. You can purchase sympathy thank you notes that come with a preprinted message or blank note cards for your message. Even if you send the preprinted notes, you should add a brief personal message. Use phrases such as:

Thank you for your sympathy and kindness …

We deeply appreciate your expression of sympathy …

Thank you for your support at this difficult time …

Thank you for your prayers and thoughts …

Thank you for the support and comfort you provided …

Thank you for the beautiful floral arrangement …

We appreciate your thoughtful donation to ____________ in memory of ______________.

We are grateful for friends like you at this time of sorrow.

We appreciate having you with us at this difficult time in our lives.

See related topics:

What to Say / What to Do
Offering Condolences
Sending Funeral Flowers
Memorial Donations

Go to Learn About Funerals — Index of Topics.