How to Send Funeral Thank You Notes

Funeral thank you notes can seem overwhelming to write especially in such a time of grief. But it is the support, during this time, that will continue to help you get through. During the grieving process it's important to put your thoughts down on paper and sending thank you notes can help accomplish this. Read on for inspiration and proper etiquette in sending sympathy thank you notes after a funeral.

Instructions

1. 

   Funeral thank you notes do not need to be sent to everyone who attended the funeral and wake. You should, however, send a thank you card to anyone who brought food, sent flowers or a mass card, made a donation in your loved one's name, pallbearers, clergy, and anyone who helped out with things like babysitting, transportation or house sitting. To make it easier, ask a family member or close friend to keep a running list of these people in the first few days after the death. In your time of grief and mourning it is easy to forget who dropped off food, etc.

2. 

   Write your thank you notes on simple white or cream stationary. The front of the card should simply say "Thank You." You may also choose to use formal stationary with your name printed on the front. The format would be Mr. & Mrs. John Robert Doe.

3. Keep the thank you cards short and simple. If possible, though, be specific in thanking the person for their thoughtfulness and generosity. For specific wording and verses for bereavement thank you notes see the link in the Resources Section below.

4. It is proper etiquette to send thank you notes within two weeks of the funeral. However, writing dozens of cards can be overwhelming in such a time of grief. If you just can't bear the task of writing sympathy thank you notes ask a family member or close friend for help. Remember, the important thing is thanking those who reached out to you even if it takes a month or two to send a thank you card.

Tips & Warnings

• Handwritten notes are the best, but it is also acceptable to simply sign pre-printed funeral thank you cards provided by the funeral home.

Resources

• Wording for Funeral Thank You Notes