Please understand that you aren’t alone if you don’t know what to say at a funeral. Even the most eloquent speakers may struggle to find the right words to speak to a bereaved person at their loved one’s funeral service. In fact, some people avoid funerals because they don’t want to talk with grieving family members.
However, if you have lost a loved one, you know how important it is to feel supported and loved following a death in the family. You may not remember what anyone said at your loved one’s funeral. However, you remember that they were there.
So, if at all possible, attend funerals. You don’t have to give a funeral speech or eulogy; say a few kind words to each family member. Here are a few words to offer your deepest condolences to family members at a funeral.
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List of Phrases to Say at a Funeral
- “I’m so sorry for your loss.”
- “My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.”
- “May you find peace and comfort in the memories you shared.”
- “I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but I’m here for you.”
- “Your loved one’s spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew them.”
- “Please reach out if you need anything, no matter how small.”
- “They will be missed.”
- Share a positive story about the deceased.
What to Say at a Funeral Service
When offering comforting words during funerals or times of loss, it’s important to convey empathy, compassion, and understanding. Here are some comforting words you can share while offering condolences.
1. “I’m so sorry for your loss.”
This simple expression shows your genuine sympathy. You can use this phrase in a sympathy card or while speaking with a grieving person.
2. “My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.”
This phrase offers support and lets them know they are not alone. Of course, you can also offer prayers if you are speaking with a spiritual person who values and appreciates prayers.
Also, if you share spiritual beliefs with the family, mention the hope of the afterlife or “better place.”
3. “May you find peace and comfort in the memories you shared.”
This phrase would be appropriate to write on Facebook or share in a sympathy card. But consider also sharing the sentiment in person—a little less formally. Encourage family and friends of the deceased to reflect on the positive moments and memories of the one they lost.
4. “I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but I’m here for you.”
Avoid saying, “I know exactly how you feel.” You don’t. Instead, acknowledge their grief while offering a sense of presence.
5. “Your loved one’s spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew them.”
Is there a large turnout for the funeral? This probably means that the deceased made a difference in the lives of many. Point this out to the family, as this acknowledges the lasting impact of the deceased’s life.
6. “Please reach out if you need anything, no matter how small.”
Offering practical support can be very comforting. Consider following up with a text or phone call within the next few weeks.
7. “They will be missed.”
Offer honest, heartfelt expressions of grief. You don’t have to use fancy words to show you are sad about the loss. Tell the family you will miss the relationship with your loved one and will not forget them.
8. Share a positive story about the deceased.
Every grieving family likes to hear kind things about their loved one who died. One of the best things you can do is to share positive stories about the deceased. Share a memory to show the family that their loved one was a wonderful friend, great coworker, or kind neighbor.
Additional Tips for Talking to the Bereaved at a Funeral
- A long line of people may be waiting to speak to the family. Briefly express your condolences.
- Only speak about the afterlife or Heaven if you know the beliefs of the deceased and their family.
- Focus on the purpose of the event. A funeral service isn’t the time to share opinions or offer suggestions.
Attending a funeral may make you think about your own mortality. Plan ahead by purchasing a cremation package from the Philadelphia Cremation Society. By pre-planning, you’ll be able to save money and let your family know the type of funeral service you want. Fill out this form for more information about affordable cremation in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
