The death of one’s sister is often one of the most unexpected and ultimately shocking deaths any one of us can experience. From a young age, we unconsciously prepare ourselves to one day find ourselves saying our farewells to our parents. On the other hand, most of us don’t consider the idea of one day having to bury one’s sister or having to say a final goodbye, especially if she died at a young age. Regardless of the type of relationship one has with their siblings, losing one of them never goes without bringing some level of distress and agony. For many, a sister is their best friend, caregiver, roommate, or biggest support system. Never underestimate the pain and suffering that comes with losing a sibling, and in this case, a sister.
With this in mind, if your relationship with the person whose sister has passed away is such that you feel you should attend the burial or memorial services, then without any hesitation or doubts please consider attending. However, in the case you can’t attend, a heartfelt condolence message can go a long way for someone in need of support and going through a transition like this. Keep in mind the sole motive of a condolences message, which is to remind the bereaved they’re accompanied in their pain and remain in your thoughts.
Below are 15 condolence message examples to say to someone who has lost their sister:
When writing your condolence messages, make sure to remain intentional and heed of the bereaved’s relationship with his or her sister. Remember friends come and go in and out of our lives, but for most of us, sisters remain through the good times and the worst of them. The loss of a sister can often signify much more than what we often attribute to it.
Regardless of your relationship with the bereaved, a condolence message serves as a great gesture and act of support during a time like this. Don’t forget any kind of support can go a long way, including some flowers or something as simple as a condolence letter. And if you have the opportunity to physically accompany the bereaved, rest assured that the presence and words of support of those we love can work as medicine for the soul and make the recovery process easier. Moreover, may we not forget to check up on those who’ve lost a loved one beyond the grieving period and time of the funeral. For many, the transition period after all of the ceremonial events have taken place is often the most difficult and loneliest part of the process.
Say you’re sorry, use her name, and share one memory or one kind thing about her if you can. “I’m so sorry about Anna. She lit up every room she walked into” is enough. Close by letting them know you’re thinking of them and that you’re there if they need anything.
One or two lines is enough. “Thinking of you and your family as you remember your sister.” “I’m so sorry. She was one of a kind.” “Sending love as you grieve your sister.” A short message is easier to read in the first few days and works for a card, a text or a comment.
Keep it simple and sincere. Acknowledge how close they were, say her name, and offer real support: “I know how much your sister meant to you. I’m here, whatever you need.” Avoid comparing losses or telling them how they should feel.
Speak the way you normally would with her. “I’m so sorry about your sister. I love you, and I’m here.” If you knew her sister, share a memory. Then follow up with a call, a meal or a visit, especially in the weeks after the funeral when support tends to fade.
Yes. A text is a good first message when you’ve just heard the news, especially if you can’t be there in person. Keep it short, don’t expect a reply, and follow it with a card, a call or a visit later on.
If you’re helping the family write her obituary, our obituary templates give you a simple place to start.
If you know the family needs help planning the memorial or funeral services, direct them to FuneralHomes.com, where they can find a local funeral home. They’ll also find helpful information on our blog, including a checklist of what to do when someone dies.
Looking for messages for a different loss? See our guides for condolence messages for the loss of a father, loss of a mother, loss of a husband, loss of a wife, and loss of a pet, or browse all of our condolence messages.