Funeral Etiquette
What to Include in a Sympathy Card
When sending a sympathy card, an easy way to remember what you should include in your condolence letter is to remember this simple CARD mnemonic.
C = compassion
It’s important to express compassion in your sympathy card. A handwritten note is more appropriate in this situation instead of sending, for example, an email. When a loved one dies, survivors need a lot of personal, human interaction to help them work through their grief and sometimes help them get through the days following the death.
A = acknowledge
In your sympathy card, be sure to acknowledge not only the grief and loss of the persons loved one but to acknowledge the feeling of the bereaved as well.
R = remember
Writing out a special memory you have about the deceased or remembering a special gift or quality the person had will be much appreciated by the bereaved family. Stories of funny events can lighten the mood and give the bereaved a much needed respite from their grief.
D = deliver
Deliver a thoughtful ending to your sympathy note. Whether you end your note with a few thoughtful sympathy quotes, a funeral poem, wish or sympathy words, it is important to let the bereaved know care
Additional Funeral Etiquette Information and Support:
Funeral Etiquette for Immediate Family Members
Funeral Etiquette for Distant Relatives and Friends
