Responding to Condolences
Guidelines and Alternate Phrases
Thank the person for taking the time to write or send a memorial such as flowers or a donation.
I appreciated your thoughtful letter so much. Such kind comments, as you know, help me to remember and cherish the years Marvin and I spent together.
Your donation of the book is just the kind of memorial my father would have loved.
The beautiful flowers meant so much to us as a symbol of your caring.
Avoid maudlin statements but add your own praise of the deceased.
Melba and I shared many of the same personal goals and dreams, and it makes me feel proud to know she had that same kind of rapport with those in her office.
John was always sensitive to my needs, sometimes even before I expressed them. Your comments about his personal thoughtfulness and his attention to excellence on the job made me feel very proud. Thank you for letting me know of your appreciation for him.
Accept or decline any offer of help graciously.
If we do decide to get away for the weekend, we will give you a call so as not to interfere with your own use of the lake cabin. Thank you for such a thoughtful gesture.
I don’t think there’s anything on the desk that can’t wait until I return to Houston, but I will take you up on your offer to notify the overseas Vitton clients that I will be away for a month. Thank you for thinking of such matters.
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