Templates for Sympathy Thank-You Notes
Your best friend watched your baby so you could be fully present at the funeral. A cousin helped you write a touching eulogy or obituary. Your co-workers sent a beautiful arrangement to the funeral. You want to let each of these special people know how much their help means to you—but perhaps you’re unsure about what to say. A template like the ones here can serve as the framework of your thank-you note.
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What to include in a thank-you note
Your guests probably won’t expect a thank-you note, but it’s a nice touch. A personalized note serves to truly acknowledge your deep appreciation. You don’t have to send a thank-you note to everyone who sent a condolence card or attended the funeral. Thank-you notes are traditionally sent to those who’ve gone above and beyond to offer encouragement, strength and assistance.
Funeral thank-you note wording can include simple but powerful phrases of gratitude such as:
- "Thank you for your condolences and sympathy during this time."
- "Thank you for being there for me."
- "My family and I appreciate the flowers you sent."
- "I am grateful for your friendship and support."
- "We appreciate your prayers and thoughts."
- "Thank you for being such a great friend to my dad—he loved you dearly."
Thank-you note templates
If you’re uncertain about what to write in a sympathy thank-you note, the following are templates that can serve as a starting point. You can personalize your notes to show your thanks for flowers, food, support, donations and more.
Thank you from the family
You may want to send a funeral thank-you message from the family. These notes can express gratitude for the kindness shown to your family during your time of grieving.
Dear Carolyn,
Your support and condolences are much appreciated by our entire family. Thank you for taking the time to offer your encouragement.
Love,
The Jones Family
- My family and I thank you for the constant support and love you’ve shown us during this difficult time. We’ve been deeply comforted by your presence.
- Our family has been deeply touched by your friendship with Liam. Your continued support and encouragement have given us hope and much needed comfort.
- This time has been difficult for us, but your kind words of have given us solace. It’s wonderful to have friends like you surrounding us.
Thank you for the flowers
Flowers are a wonderful mood-lifter and provide color for the funeral. You can thank family and friends for flowers by using the following templates.
Dear Jeff,
The flowers you sent to Bill’s funeral were beautiful. They brightened the service, and I know he would have enjoyed them.
Sincerely,
Mateo
- Thank you so much for the gorgeous flower arrangement you sent to Sarah’s memorial. We appreciate your kindness and support.
- It was so thoughtful of you to send the beautiful wreath to the funeral home. It brightened the visitation and service, and I am grateful for your kindness during this time.
- I am so thankful to have you in my life. The trees you had planted in Devon’s name will serve as a wonderful legacy, and I appreciate your kindness.
Thank you for the food
Family and friends may have made your loved one’s favorite dish or provided food for the funeral. The following templates provide the wording for thank-you notes for gifts of food following the death of someone dear to you.
Dear Amanda,
I appreciate the time and love you put into making us a homemade dinner. I am so fortunate to have a friend like you.
Love,
Sofia
- The meal you made for my family was absolutely delicious. It was one of Anthony’s favorites. Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness during this difficult time.
- My sincere thanks for the lasagne you brought over after Mike’s celebration of life. You are such a blessing to me.
- It meant so much to us that you brought delicious food to the potluck after Margot’s funeral. We thank you for your kindness.
More ideas for thank-you notes for co-workers and others
Co-workers are often a great source of support and encouragement after a death. In fact, you might be surprised by who shows up for you. Show your gratitude using one of these templates.
Dear Muhammad,
It meant so much to me that you were there for me during this difficult time. The loss of Justin has been challenging, and your presence has been a tremendous help.
Sincerely,
Julie
- Thank you so much for your donation to the SPCA in Penny’s honor. I will always remember your generosity.
- We deeply appreciate your comfort and support at Brenda’s celebration. It’s wonderful to have people like you in our lives.
- I am grateful for the time you took to offer your loving support. Because you watched Amar, I was able to be fully present at Jackson’s funeral.
These are only a few ideas. The best handwritten notes come straight from the heart. Regardless of how you find the words, taking the time to write a thank-you note lets the people in your life know how much their support and presence means to you.