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Ask the Thank You Diva:
Newspaper Note of Thanks after Funeral

'J' asks the Thank You Diva about how to word a letter of thanks to be placed in the newspaper following her mother's death.

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Question:

Dear Thank You Diva,

I recently lost my mother, and we have had lots of support from family and friends. I have been asked to write a letter to the newspaper to say 'thank you' but I'm lost for words. Could you help me?

Thank you, J



The Thank You Diva responds:

Dear J,

Thank you for your message and I am very sorry to hear of your loss.

First of all you will need to decide whether you want your note or letter to express general gratitude to everyone who has supported you, or whether – in addition – you wish to specifically mention individuals or organisations (for example your pastor or the funeral home). Bear in mind that this expression of thanks does not need to be long or, indeed, to mention everyone by name.

Without knowing a little more about your circumstances it is difficult to provide you with a 'print ready' text, however I hope that the following examples will be of help as templates:


In memory of [your mother's name]
The family of the late [your mother's name] wish to express their deep appreciation to those who have offered such kindness, support and messages of sympathy and comfort in our bereavement. We especially wish to thank xxxxxx and xxxxxx.

The xxxxxx Family (or xxxxx and family)

or

To everyone who has supported us following the death of [your mother's name], we would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation. Your many acts of kindness and sympathy continue to be a great comfort to us in our time of sorrow.

The xxxxxx Family (or xxxxx and family)

or

To the family and many friends of the late [your mother's name], we wish to extend our sincere thanks for your many kindnesses, and for the condolences and support that we have received. We also send our gratitude and appreciation to xxxxxx and xxxxxx (name of hospital, pastor, funeral home etc.).

The xxxxxx Family (or xxxxx and family)


Of course, you will want to edit / adapt the above messages to fit your precise circumstances, and any word count imposed by the newspaper.

The Bible
Depending on your situation, you may want to add specific thanks for cards, flowers and floral tributes, charity donations or other specific acts of kindness received.

Additionally, you may wish to thank people for their prayers, and perhaps add a Bible verse such as 'I know my Redeemer Liveth' (Job 19:25).

With my best wishes,
The Thank You Diva


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