How to Write a Thank-You Note After a Funeral
As we officially enter the holiday season, now is the perfect time to focus on how to give thanks. In a previous post, we encouraged friends and family to take time to be thankful in the midst of grief. This Thanksgiving, we want to focus on another aspect of thankfulness…how to write a thank-you note when someone has helped you as you mourn.
How to Write a Sympathy Thank You Note
Thank-You Note Just in Time
When it comes to processing grief, no one fits into a prescribed timetable. After losing a loved one, you could feel grief for days, weeks, months, or even years. But no matter the time period, you will likely spend some time feeling numb. People describe this as shellshock. So, go easy on yourself. Even if a lot of time has passed since the funeral or memorial service, you can still express your gratitude to people who helped you navigate the painful process of loss. If possible, try to write a note within a week or so. But if ever there was a time when people will cut you some slack, this should be the time. If you find yourself unable to complete the task, ask for help. You might be surprised at the joy you bring others by leaning on others during this difficult time.
Chewable Bites
The list of “thank you” notes owed for flowers, gifts, casseroles, and other acts of service may overwhelm you. If so, feel free to break it into bite-sized pieces. Tackling the entire list may keep you from starting the task at all. Instead, determine to write one or two notes a day. Breaking it into manageable pieces can help you overcome inertia, so you can get started. And when grief is at an all-time high, you may welcome the feeling of accomplishment that comes from completing a small task on a long list.
What to Say in a Thank-You Note
If you’re unsure about what to include in your note, consider these suggestions:
Include your first and last name (or the full name of the deceased) in the note. This is especially important when thanking people who are outside of your immediate circle of family and friends. (Think work colleagues or extended family.) Including a first and last name is particularly crucial if your acknowledgments are delayed.
Short & Sweet
Don’t feel pressure to write a long narrative with each note. A simple one-to-three-sentence “thank you” will suffice if it comes from the heart. You may even consider purchasing sympathy thank you notes, which include a preprinted message. If you can’t find those, opt for blank note cards. If the notes you select are preprinted, include a brief personal message.
Sample Text of a Thank-You Note
While countless ways exist to phrase expressions of gratitude, here are a few that make the grade:
- I am grateful for friends like you at this time of sorrow.
- I deeply appreciate your expression of sympathy.
- Thank you for providing comfort and support.
- Thank you for your kindness.
- Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
- We appreciate having you with us at this difficult time in our lives.
- We are so thankful for your support during this difficult time.
From all of us at Foothill Funeral & Cremation Services, Happy Thanksgiving!
About Foothill Funeral & Cremation in Glendora, California
We would count it an honor to help you through this trying time. Feel free to contact us now to pre-plan your own memorial or at your time of need (626) 335-0615. Our relationship with the United Methodist Church and Sacred Heart (which currently allows a maximum of 65 people) provides great places for mourners to host funerals and memorials. You’ll love the grandiose yet intimate settings in both locations.
