Acknowledge the relationship, express care, and offer support. If they mentioned their grandma or grandpa at work, a gentle reference shows you were listening.
How to write it
- Don’t minimise the loss because of age.
- Use the name they used: grandma, nan, grandad, abuela.
- Offer time off and support.
Simple condolences
I’m so sorry about your grandmother. Thinking of you.
Please accept my sympathy for the loss of your grandad.
So sorry to hear about your nan. Sending love.
I know how close you were. I’m so sorry.
Thinking of you and your family at this sad time.
Remembering them
Your stories about your grandma’s cooking always made us hungry. I’m so sorry she’s gone.
He sounded like a remarkable man. I’m sorry for your loss.
I loved hearing about your grandad’s war stories. Thinking of you.
She clearly shaped who you are. That legacy is beautiful.
From the team
With love and sympathy from all of us.
The team is thinking of you and your family.
Take the time you need — we’ve got it covered.
Sending you our condolences and our love.
Short messages
So sorry for your loss.
Thinking of you.
With deepest sympathy.
Sending love and strength.
What to avoid
- “At least they lived a long life.”
- “It was their time.”
Organising the whole card? Our sympathy card guide covers timing and who to invite.