Writing Practice

I. A Brief Introduction

Write A Letter of Condolence or Sympathy

The best condolence or sympathy letters are like conversations you would have to the family, only in written form. The letters are usually handwritten, under one page in length and are sent promptly. They can be addressed to the person in the family you feel the closest to, or to the family as a whole. A well structured condolence or sympathy letter usually has seven parts:

1) Acknowledge the loss. 

2) Express your sympathy. 

3) Note the special qualities of the deceased you admired or appreciated.

4) Recount a memory about the deceased. 

5) Offer assistance.

6) Close with a thoughtful word or phrase.

7) The ending and sign off.

II. A Sample Letter

A Letter of Sympathy and Condolence for a Mother

Dear Cathy,

My thoughts are with you at this time. I know how close you and your mother were and I can only imagine what you must be going through right now.

Your mom was one of the kindest, wisest, most thoughtful people I’ve ever known. I’ll never forget that time, when she came to my rescue after the car accident. I was so upset about what my parents would do. Your mom helped me calm down and deal with the situation like an adult. She taught me to take responsibility and I still carry that lesson with me today.

Even though you and I are thousands of miles apart right now, please know that I’m praying for you. I know that you have the strength in you to move on and I want to remind you that I’m here for you. I’d like to spend some time with you as soon as possible, so I’ll call you to find out when I can visit.

Take care,

Rebecca

III. Homework

You are required to write a letter of sympathy and condolence to Phil’s wife and his family based on Text A.

Reference:

Dear Mrs. Phil,

I was deeply saddened to learn of Phil’s death and I would like to express my sincere sympathy to you and your family on behalf of the senior management team here in our company. Your husband was highly respected by managers and employees throughout the entire company. He was regarded as a visionary leader by anyone who ever worked with him.

Phil’s contributions to this company during his over 20 years of dedicated and selfless service were varied and invaluable. He was a major part of our initial expansion across the country. Believe me, his contributions to this company will not be forgotten.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences at this difficult time and I ask you to please pass these sentiments on to your children. Phil was a remarkable man. Knowing him personally as I did for many years, I am well aware of the difference he made in the lives of many people, both here in the company, and in his private life. Many will miss him.

With sincere sympathy,

Edgar Howard