There is nothing more difficult than losing a loved one. And when a coworker experiences a loss it can be challenging to know how to express condolences and offer them your support.
As you are colleagues then sending them a thoughtful condolence email is a perfectly acceptable way to show them you are thinking of them and say a few words of condolence.
So use these example condolence emails to help you find the right words to express your sympathy in an empathetic and genuine way.
Example Condolence Emails to a Coworker
Below you will find examples of condolence emails for colleagues who have lost friends, family members, partners and more.
Condolence Email for the Loss of a Family Member
Subject Line: Sorry for Your Loss
Dear [Name],
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your [family member]. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. [He/She] will always be remembered for [specific memory or trait]. If you need anything at all please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Take care,
[Your Name]
—-
Subject Line: With Sympathy
Dear [Name],
I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your father. Losing someone so close to us like a parent is one of the most difficult experiences we can go through, and so I wanted you to know that I am here to support you in any way I can.
I never had the chance to meet your dad but from what you told me about him he was a wonderful man. I’m sure he was incredibly proud of you and everything you have achieved. I hope you can find some comfort in the amazing memories you have of him. His legacy will live on through those memories and the love you shared with him.
Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this tough time. If you there is anything you need then please don’t hesitate to reach out.
With heartfelt condolences,
[Your Name]
Example Condolence Email for the Loss of a Friend
Subject Line: My Deepest Sympathies for the Loss of [Name]
Dear [Name],
I am absolutely heartbroken to learn of the passing of your dear friend [Name]. I know how much they meant to you and I cannot imagine the pain you must be feeling right now.
If you need anyone to talk to or just someone to sit with you in silence then please know that I will be there for you.
[Name] was such a special person, and I feel fortunate to have known them. They will be deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to know them but their spirit will live on in our hearts and memories forever.
With heartfelt condolences,
[Your Name]
Example Condolence Email for the Loss of a Parent
Subject Line: My Heartfelt Sympathy on the Loss of Your [Mother/Father]
Dear [Name],
I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your [mother/father]. There is little more difficult in this world than losing a parent and I can’t begin to know how hard this must be for you.
I hope you know that I’m here for you during such a challenge time. If you need someone to talk to, to help with practical matters or just someone there to be with you then you can turn to me.
Your [mom/dad] was an amazing person who touched the lives of so many. Their legacy won’t be forgotten and they will always hold a place in all of our hearts.
With deepest sympathy,
[Your Name]
Condolence Email for the Loss of a Child
Subject Line: My Heart Aches for Your Loss
Dear [Name],
I can’t begin to express how truly sorry I am for your loss. Losing a child is a tragedy that no parent should ever have to face and my heart aches for you during this awful time.
Please know that you are not alone in your grief. Everyone at work is here for you and your family with love and support.
We can do whatever is needed to ease some of the pain you are feeling. Don’t think twice about reaching out to us.
With heartfelt condolences,
[Your Name]
Condolence Email for the Loss of a Spouse
Subject Line: My Sincere Condolences on the Passing of [Name]
Dear [Name],
I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your beloved [spouse/partner]. My heart goes out to you during this difficult time.
Even though we aren’t that close I wanted to extend my deepest condolences. The team is holding down the fort so please don’t worry about anything at work. We will all be looking forward to seeing you back in the office when you feel ready.
With heartfelt sympathy,
[Your Name]
Condolence Email for the Loss of a Mother
Subject Line: My Deepest Sympathies on the Loss of Your Mother
Dear [Name],
Please accept my most sincere condolences for the loss of your mother. I am thinking and praying for you and your family.
Your mother was an incredible woman who touched the lives of so many. I will always remember her kindness, her strength and her unwavering love for her family.
My heart aches for you and I wanted you to know that I’m here if there is anything that you need.
With deepest sympathy,
[Your Name]
Condolence Email for the Loss of a Son or Daughter
Subject Line: My Heart Aches for Your Loss
Dear [Name],
I was devastated to hear about the passing of your beloved [son/daughter]. Though my words may offer little consolation I wanted you to know you are not alone.
I will do everything I can to cover your work while you take as long as you need to grieve. I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
With heartfelt condolences,
[Your Name]
Condolence Email for the Loss of a Pet
Dear [Name],
I was saddened to hear about the loss of your beloved [pet]. I’ve sadly lost a pet before and know how strong the bonds we form with the are. The loss can be just as devastating as losing a human family member.
Please know that I’m thinking of you and how much joy and love your furry friend brought to your life. I understand how deeply they will be missed.
If there’s anything I can do to help please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Condolence Email
If you need some more help then these general tips should help you write a thoughtful and empathetic condolence email:
- Begin your email by acknowledging the loss of your colleague and show them you understand what they’re going through.
- Offer your support to them in whatever way you can. From covering for or helping them at work to bringing them food or simply being there to listen. Whatever it is you can do make that clear to them.
- Make your email as personal as you can and don’t rely on cliches. Common phrases like “they’re in a better place” can actually be offensive and cause more upset.
- Don’t make it too long. If they want to talk further they will reply or reach out in some way. It’s better to keep your email quite brief and just let them know that you’re there if they need someone.
READ MORE: Condolence Etiquette: Tips for Expressing your Condolences
Condolence Email to Coworker Subject Line Examples
Getting the right subject line for your email is important for setting the tone and showing your colleague that you care. These example subject lines should help you to find the perfect one for your situation:
- My Condolences on the Passing of Your [Loved One]
- Sending Love and Comfort Your Way
- My Sincere Condolences
- Holding You in My Thoughts
- In Memory of [Name]
- Thinking of You During This Difficult Time
- My Heartfelt Sympathy
- Sending Love and Support Your Way
- With Deepest Sympathy
- Sorry for Your Loss
How to Sign Off a Condolence Email to a Coworker
How you choose to sign off a condolence email can also be important in getting the right tone and keeping the whole email respectful. These are a few examples of ways to close your email:
- Sending you love and support
- Thinking of you
- With heartfelt condolences
- Wishing you peace and comfort
- You’re in my thoughts
- With deepest sympathy
- In sorrow
- Take care of yourself
- Warmly
- Sincerely
READ MORE: How to Sign a Sympathy Card
It can challenging to express condolences to a coworker, especially through email. But it’s a good idea to send something and let them know you’re thinking of them.
We hope these examples have provided some inspiration and guidance for writing your own condolence email. Remember though that the way we experience grief is individual so there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Just be understanding, sincere and offer your support in whatever way you can.
I’ve read 2 articles, Sally. I enjoyed your thoughtful approach, and there’s one more time of condolences and comfort—when one loses their child. I’ve lost an infant and a 32 yo son. I wish ppl would just show up to sit with me. Instead I got a card or phone call that said stupid things–“You can have another baby. ” “Only the good die young.” I kept smiling and telling myself they were well-meaning. And it was better than those who said nothing.
Also, I would think a suicide or overdose should be handled more sensitively.