A funny condolence message may seem inappropriate. Joking during such a tragic time could be rude and offensive.
But some people appreciate dark or gallows humor. Even when mourning or grieving a loss.
It’s very important that you know the recipient of your message well though. You need to be sure that their sense of humor is right for a funny condolence message.
If so then the following lighthearted and funny sympathy messages may be perfect. Remember to be sensitive and considerate to those grieving though, and adjust your message to fit how they are reacting to losing a loved one.
Funny Condolence Messages for After a Death
- At least they don’t have to pay taxes anymore!
- They say the good die young, so I guess that’s why they lived so long.
- We’ll miss them… but hey, at least the funeral food will be good.
- Well, they’ve officially escaped Monday mornings and rush hour traffic forever.
- They lived a good life. Let’s not ask any questions.
- Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because their suffering is finally done.
- They’re no longer in pain. All they have to deal with now is the boredom of Heaven.
- Guess they won’t be needing that gym membership anymore.
- They always said they wanted to leave with a bang… I guess they got their wish.
- I was so sad to hear about your loss. If there’s anything I can do to help please let me know. For example I’d be happy to take any expensive property off your hands to lessen your burden.
- Please accept my condolences in this awful time. They will be deeply missed… unless we’re talking about that jerk brother-in-law that no one liked.
Funny Condolence Messages for an Illness
- Get well soon… ish.
- Wishing you a speedy recovery… or at least one that beats the diagnosis time.
- Hope you get well soon. I’m running out of casseroles to bring over.
- Get well soon – I still need someone to laugh at my jokes.
- Hope you feel better! But in the meantime, milk that illness for all it’s worth!
- Feel better – and let me know if you need a cheering section or someone to wait on you hand and foot.
- Recovery wishes headed your way! Good thing you’ve got Netflix to keep you company.
Funny Condolence Quotes
- “Never cry over spilled milk. It could’ve been whiskey.” – Unknown
- “May the forces of evil become confused on the way to your house.” – George Carlin
- “At my funeral, take the bouquet off my coffin and throw it into the crowd to see who is next.” – Joan Rivers
- “If you can’t be generous when someone has died, when can you be.” – Ruskin Bond
- “The only thing certain in life is death and taxes… and sometimes bad puns.” – Unknown
- “Laughter and tears are both responses to frustration and exhaustion. I prefer to laugh, as there is less cleaning up to do afterward.” – Kurt Vonnegut
- “Life is a comedy for those who think and a tragedy for those who feel.” – Jean de la Bruyere
Should You Send a Funny Condolence?
It’s mostly depends on the recipient. If you know them well and can be sure they won’t be offended then it should be fine. But if you aren’t sure or don’t know them very well then be extra careful.
Losing a loved one is going to be extremely painful. For most people it won’t be a time for jokes or laughter.
So while humor can help some people cope with loss others may find it offensive. So it’s important to know your audience.
Tips for Sending a Funny Condolence Message
- Timing is important. Wait until some time has passed after the loss before attempting humor. The raw stages of grief may not be the right setting.
- Keep it light. Avoid jokes about the cause of death or making the person’s passing the butt of the joke. Poke fun at peripheral things instead of the loss itself.
- Include genuine empathy. Balance the humor with sincere expressions of sympathy. Don’t simply make a joke but also acknowledge the pain they are going through.
- Know when to avoid it. Some losses like a child’s death would be impossible for almost anyone to find humor in. Proceed with caution or just avoid comedy altogether.
- Apologize if needed. If someone is offended by an attempt at humor then a full and sincere apology and acknowledgement of misjudging the situation is the best way to make amends.
Remember, most people will find these messages offensive and upsetting. If you are going to use one of them then be 100% sure the recipient won’t be offended and will accept them as they are intended – not seriously.
