Condolence Messages for Loss of a Sister (180 Examples)

Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences we face in life. The pain of loss is even more pronounced when the deceased is someone as close as a sister. As friends and acquaintances of those grieving, it can often be difficult to find the right words to express our sympathies. We understand that everyone’s relationship with the deceased is unique, as are the circumstances surrounding their passing.

This guide is designed to help you in offering condolences for the loss of a sister. We’ve gathered a range of condolence message examples to suit various scenarios and circumstances, from the nature of the deceased’s passing to the relationship shared between the bereaved and the departed.

Whether you’re looking to pen a heartfelt letter, craft a comforting text message, or share a sympathetic post on social media, this article offers a selection of sample messages that meet a wide variety of needs.

Remember, the most important thing is sincerity. A genuine expression of sympathy can provide significant comfort to those in grief, reminding them that they’re not alone during this difficult time.

Read on to find the words that best express your condolences and offer comfort to someone mourning the loss of their sister.

How to Use This Guide

Select your situation
Read the sample condolence messages
Choose one or more that you connect with
Personalize by combining them, and adding names of the Father and/or who you are writing to
If you feel comfortable, add a personal reflection or memory of the deceased

Discover more about the etiquette and how to write condolences messages with meaning.

Circumstance of the Sister’s Death

Condolences for Unexpected Death of a Sister

A sudden or unexpected loss can be particularly shocking, and the bereaved may be dealing with a mix of intense emotions.

“I’m so sorry to hear about the sudden loss of your sister. I can’t imagine how difficult this must be for you. I’m here for you in any way that you need.”
“I was shocked and saddened to hear about your sister’s passing. Please accept my deepest condolences.”
“My heart aches for you in your sudden loss. Your sister’s vibrant spirit will be missed.”
“I was deeply saddened by the unexpected news of your sister’s passing. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.”
“Your sister’s sudden passing has left us all shocked. We will all miss her dearly. My deepest condolences to you and your family.”
“My heart goes out to you in your time of sudden loss. Your sister will always be remembered.”
“I am deeply sorry to hear about your sister’s unexpected passing. I’m here for you, and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything.”
“I can’t begin to imagine what you’re going through right now. Please know that I’m here to support you in any way I can during this difficult time.”
“Your sister’s sudden departure is heartbreaking. My thoughts are with you and your family.”
“The unexpected loss of your sister is profoundly saddening. May you find strength and solace in the love of those around you.”

Condolences for Loss of a Sister After a Long-term Illness

If the sister was ill for a long time, the bereaved may have been expecting the loss but that doesn’t make it less painful.

“I am so sorry for your loss. I know how much you loved your sister and how hard you fought together. Her strength and yours have been inspiring.”
“Your sister battled her illness with such grace and bravery. Her spirit will remain a beacon for all of us. My deepest condolences.”
“I’m so sorry for your loss. I know how hard your sister fought, and how much she was loved. She will be greatly missed.”
“Your sister fought a long battle and through it all, her spirit remained unbroken. She was truly an inspiration to us all. My deepest sympathies are with you.”
“I was deeply saddened to hear about your sister’s passing. She fought her illness bravely. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.”
“Your sister’s courage in the face of her illness was truly inspirational. She will be greatly missed. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.”
“The courage with which your sister faced her illness was remarkable. She was an inspiration to all of us. Our hearts are with you in your time of sorrow.”
“I know your sister’s long illness was a tough journey for you all. You have my deepest sympathies for your loss.”
“I’m sorry to hear about your sister’s passing. She fought a tough battle and you were always there for her. She was lucky to have you in her life.”
“I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your sister. Despite her long illness, her spirit remained strong and she touched so many lives. My deepest condolences.”

Condolences for Accidental Death of a Sister

An accidental death can leave the bereaved grappling with questions and feeling a heightened sense of unfairness or injustice.

“I was devastated to hear about the tragic accident that took your sister from us. It’s hard to find the right words, but I want you to know that you’re not alone. We are here for you.”
“The news about your sister’s accident has left me stunned. I can’t begin to understand what you’re going through, but I want you to know that I am here for you.”
“I’m deeply saddened by the news of your sister’s untimely passing due to the accident. Please remember that you’re not alone and I’m here to support you in any way I can.”
“My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. The news of your sister’s accident was a shock to all of us. Please know that you are in our thoughts.”
“The tragic accident of your sister has deeply saddened us all. Her kind spirit and bright smile will be missed. If you need anything, I’m here for you.”
“My heart aches to hear about your sister’s accident. It’s an unimaginable loss, and we’re all here for you in this difficult time. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.”
“The news of your sister’s passing in the accident has left us all deeply saddened. She will be dearly missed. Please know that we are here for you and you are in our thoughts.”
“The tragic loss of your sister in the accident has left a void that can never be filled. Her memory will live on in our hearts. Please accept my deepest condolences.”
“I was deeply shaken to hear about the tragic accident involving your sister. Please remember that we are here to help you navigate through this difficult time.”
“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the tragic loss of your sister. She will be remembered for her joyous spirit and kind heart. If you need anything, please reach out.”

Condolences for a Sister Who Died of Old Age

Even though death from old age is a part of the life cycle, the loss of a sibling is never easy to bear.

“Your sister lived a long and beautiful life, but I know that doesn’t make her passing any easier. Please know that you are in my thoughts during this difficult time.”
“I am deeply saddened by the news of your sister’s passing. She lived a life full of love and joy, and she will be missed. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.”
“Your sister’s long, fruitful life is a testament to her strength and resilience. She will be greatly missed. I’m here to support you in your time of loss.”
“My heartfelt sympathies go out to you and your family. May the soul of your sister, who lived a long and admirable life, find peace.”
“Your sister left us at an old age, but her spirit was always young at heart. She will be deeply missed. My heartfelt condolences to you.”
“In her long life, your sister touched the hearts of many. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched.”
“Your sister’s passing is a profound loss. She lived a full and vibrant life, and her memories will be cherished forever. Please accept my deepest condolences.”
“My heart aches for you and your family during this time. Your sister’s long and fulfilling life was an inspiration to all who knew her. Please know I’m here for you.”
“Your sister may have lived a long life, but it doesn’t make her passing any less painful. Remember that we are here for you during this difficult time.”
“Though your sister lived a long life, it’s still hard to say goodbye. I hope you find comfort in the many beautiful memories you shared. My deepest condolences to you.”

Timing of the Message

Immediate Condolences for Death of a Sister

These messages are sent as soon as the news is received.

“I just heard about the sad news. I’m so sorry for your loss. Your sister was a beautiful soul, and she will be deeply missed.”
“I’m heartbroken to hear about your sister’s passing. I can’t imagine how hard it must be for you. I’m here if you need anything.”
“I just learned about your sister’s passing and I wanted to let you know how truly sorry I am. Her kindness and warmth will be missed.”
“I just heard about your sister and I wanted to express my deepest sympathies. If there’s anything I can do, don’t hesitate to let me know.”
“My heart sank when I heard the news about your sister. I’m deeply sorry for your loss. She was a remarkable person and will be missed.”
“I was deeply saddened to hear about your sister’s passing. Please accept my condolences, and know that I am here for you.”
“I am truly sorry to hear about the loss of your sister. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.”
“I just learned of your sister’s passing and I am deeply saddened by your loss. She was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed.”
“I was shocked to hear about your sister’s passing. My deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time.”
“I am heartbroken to hear about the loss of your sister. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.”

Belated Condolences for Death of a Sister

These are messages sent a while after the death has occurred. They require a delicate touch, acknowledging the delay.

“I’ve just learned of your sister’s passing and I am truly sorry for not reaching out sooner. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family.”
“I am deeply sorry to hear about your sister’s passing and regret that I could not convey my sympathies sooner. Please know that my thoughts are with you.”
“My deepest apologies for not reaching out sooner about the loss of your sister. Please accept my belated condolences during this difficult time.”
“I am so sorry to hear about your sister’s passing and regret that I wasn’t able to reach out sooner. Please know that you’re in my thoughts.”
“I have just come to know about your sister’s passing. I am so sorry for not reaching out sooner. My heart goes out to you in your time of sorrow.”
“I am truly sorry to hear about the loss of your sister. Please forgive my delay in expressing my condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers.”
“I deeply regret not being able to offer my condolences sooner for the loss of your sister. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.”
“My apologies for not reaching out sooner about your sister’s passing. I am here for you now, and my heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family.”
“I am sorry to hear about the loss of your sister. Please forgive my late response. You and your family are in my thoughts during this difficult time.”
“I’m deeply sorry for not reaching out sooner. The news of your sister’s passing has deeply saddened me. My thoughts are with you and your family.”

Anniversary of the Death of the Sister

Messages for the anniversary of the death can help show the bereaved that they are not alone in their ongoing grief. While they may receive plenty of comforting words when their sister first passed away, as time goes on they may feel more alone. A well timed note on the anniversary of the death is likely to help.

“Remembering your sister today, on the anniversary of her passing. She continues to be missed dearly.”
“On this difficult day, please know that I am thinking of you. Your sister’s spirit lives on in our memories.”
“Today, as we mark the anniversary of your sister’s passing, I want you to know that she is remembered fondly and missed greatly.”
“As we remember your sister on this solemn anniversary, may you find comfort in the memories you shared together.”
“On the anniversary of your sister’s passing, I’m holding you in my thoughts. She was a truly remarkable person and continues to live on in our hearts.”
“Today, as we remember the day your sister left us, may you find strength in the love she left behind.”
“Thinking of you and your sister on this day. Her memory remains strong in our hearts.”
“Your sister’s life was a beautiful gift to us all. As we remember her on this day, may you find comfort and peace.”
“Today, we honor your sister’s memory and the life she lived. You are in my thoughts.”
“On this day of remembrance, may the memories of your sister’s love and laughter fill your heart with warmth.”

During Holidays or Special Occasions

The first year after a death can be particularly difficult as the bereaved navigate holidays and special occasions without their sister.

“Thinking of you during this holiday season. I know it must be challenging without your sister. Sending you love and warmth.”
“This holiday season, I’m holding you close in my thoughts. Your sister’s love and warmth continue to shine brightly.”
“I know special occasions can be difficult without your sister. Please know that I’m here for you during this time.”
“This holiday must be tough without your sister. May the memories of the happy times you shared with her bring you comfort.”
“As we celebrate this special occasion, I know your sister’s absence is deeply felt. My thoughts are with you.”
“As this special day approaches, I understand that it might be difficult without your sister. You’re in my thoughts.”
“This season must be tough without your sister. May you find strength in the love and warmth she brought to your life.”
“During this special time, your sister’s absence is deeply felt. I’m here for you, and you’re in my thoughts.”
“This holiday season, we remember your sister’s joy and love. You are in my thoughts.”
“I understand this occasion may be hard without your sister’s presence. May her love and memories bring you comfort.”

Condolence Messages for Birthday of the Sister

Birthdays are another occasion when people feel extra loss for their loved one. Sympathy messages are likely to be appreciated.

“On your sister’s birthday, remember the love and happiness she brought into our lives. She is greatly missed.”
“Thinking of you and your sister today, on what would have been her birthday. Her spirit lives on in our hearts.”
“On your sister’s birthday, may you find comfort in the joyous memories you shared. She is remembered with love.”
“Remembering your sister on her birthday. May her love and memories bring you peace.”
“Your sister’s birthday is a time to remember the joy and happiness she brought into our lives. She is dearly missed.”
“On your sister’s birthday, we remember her beautiful spirit. You are in my thoughts during this time.”
“Today, on your sister’s birthday, we celebrate the love and joy she brought to our lives. She is missed dearly.”
“Thinking of your sister on her birthday. Her light continues to shine brightly in our hearts.”
“Your sister may not be with us to celebrate her birthday, but her spirit lives on. You’re in my thoughts.”
“On your sister’s birthday, we remember the beautiful life she lived. May her memories bring you comfort.”

Types of Messages

Short and Simple Condolences for a Sister

These are succinct messages that express sympathy without getting too detailed.

“I’m so sorry for your loss. Your sister will be missed.”
“My deepest condolences on the loss of your sister.”
“I’m heartbroken about your sister’s passing. She was a wonderful person.”
“Your sister was a beautiful soul. My sympathies are with you.”
“My heart goes out to you in your time of sorrow.”
“My deepest sympathies for the loss of your sister.”
“I’m profoundly saddened by your sister’s passing. She was remarkable.”
“Your sister’s memory will always live in our hearts. My condolences.”
“I’m very sorry to hear about your sister’s passing.”
“My heart aches for you during this sad time. I’m here for you.”

Detailed and Heartfelt Condolences for a Sister

These messages delve into fond memories, praises for the deceased, and more personal sentiments.

“My heart aches for you and your family. Your sister was not just a wonderful sister, but also a good friend to those who knew her. She will be greatly missed. Please know that I’m here for you in this difficult time.”
“I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of your sister. She was a beacon of light in our lives and will be greatly missed. Her warm smile and positive attitude toward life were truly inspiring.”
“Your sister was such a wonderful person, with a heart full of kindness. Her passing is a loss for all who knew her. I’m here for you, and I’m sharing in your sadness.”
“I feel a great sadness upon hearing about your sister’s passing. Her remarkable spirit and zest for life were contagious. My deepest sympathies are with you during this difficult time.”
“My heart goes out to you for the loss of your sister. I remember her fondly for her warm heart and gentle spirit. She was an extraordinary person who will be missed dearly.”
“Your sister’s passing is a profound loss. Her kindness, grace, and strength were an inspiration to all who knew her. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.”
“I am deeply saddened by your sister’s passing. Her generosity and kindness were unmatched, and she will always hold a special place in our hearts. Please know that I am here for you during this difficult time.”
“I’m heartbroken over your sister’s passing. She was a vibrant and caring soul whose impact on our lives was profound. I’m here for you and your family during this heartbreaking time.”
“Your sister’s life was a blessing to everyone who knew her. I’m deeply saddened by her passing and I’m here for you during this difficult time. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.”
“The news of your sister’s passing deeply saddens me. She was a ray of sunshine and kindness in our lives, and she will be greatly missed. I am here for you and your family during this sorrowful time.”

Religious or Spiritual Messages (Christian)

If you know the bereaved is religious it may be appropriate to reference God in your sympathy message.

“May God’s grace and peace be with you as you mourn the loss of your sister. She is in His loving care now.”
“Your sister is now in the Lord’s embrace, free from pain and suffering. May you find comfort in this thought.”
“Your sister has found eternal peace with the Lord. My prayers are with you during this time.”
“May God’s love bring you comfort and peace as you remember your sister. Her spirit lives on in His heavenly kingdom.”
“Praying that God’s love fills your heart as you mourn your sister. May you find comfort in His promise of eternal life.”
“May you find solace in the Lord’s promise of eternal life as you grieve your sister’s passing.”
“Your sister is in God’s loving care now. May His peace and comfort be with you during this time.”
“May God’s love and peace comfort you as you remember your sister. She is resting in His eternal embrace.”
“Your sister now rests in the Lord’s loving arms. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.”
“Your sister is at peace in God’s heavenly kingdom. May you find comfort in His love and grace.”

Messages with Offers of Help or Support

These messages not only express sympathy but also include a sincere offer of help, whether it’s practical (like cooking a meal or babysitting) or emotional (like lending an ear).

“I’m so sorry for the loss of your sister. If you need someone to talk to or anything at all, I’m here for you.”
“My deepest condolences for your sister’s passing. Please let me know how I can support you during this difficult time.”
“I’m deeply sorry for your loss. If there’s anything you need, whether it’s a listening ear or help around the house, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
“Your sister’s passing must be incredibly hard for you. I’m here for you, day or night. Please reach out if you need anything.”
“I’m profoundly sorry for the loss of your sister. Remember, you’re not alone. I’m here for anything you need.”
“I can’t begin to understand your pain, but I want to help in any way I can. Please let me know if there’s anything you need.”
“Your sister’s loss is heartbreaking. If you need a shoulder to lean on or need help with anything, I’m here for you.”
“I’m so sorry for your loss. Please know that I’m here to support you, whether you need help with daily tasks or just a friend to talk to.”
“I can’t imagine the pain you’re feeling. I’m here to help in any way I can during this difficult time.”
“Please accept my deepest sympathies for the loss of your sister. If you need anything – a meal, errands run, or just a friendly conversation, I’m here for you.”

Medium of Message

Text Messages for Death of a Sister

“I’m so sorry to hear about your sister’s passing. She was a wonderful person and will be deeply missed. I’m here for you.”
“My deepest condolences on the loss of your sister. If there’s anything I can do, please let me know.”
“I’m heartbroken about your sister’s passing. Her warm spirit and kind heart will be remembered by all who knew her.”
“Your sister’s memory will always live on in our hearts. My sympathies are with you in this difficult time.”
“I’m very sorry to hear about your sister’s passing. I’m here for you, and I’m just a phone call away.”
“Your sister was a beautiful soul. My heartfelt condolences go out to you in this time of sorrow.”
“I’m profoundly saddened by your sister’s passing. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to reach out.”
“I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Your sister will be greatly missed. Please know that I’m here for you.”
“My heart aches for you. I’m here for you during this difficult time. Your sister’s memory will forever live on in our hearts.”
“I am here for you in this difficult time. My deepest sympathies for the loss of your sister.”

Email Subject Lines and Sign-offs for Loss of Sister

Email Subject Lines

Email expressing your sympathy should include a subject line so that the person immediately knows what it’s about. They may choose not to open it right away, or take their time in responding.

Heartfelt Condolences for Your Loss
My Deepest Sympathies
In Deepest Sympathy
Your Sister Will Be Missed
With You in Thoughts and Prayers
In Loving Memory of Your Sister
Sharing in Your Sorrow
Condolences on Your Loss

Email Sign-Offs

Below are several examples for signing off an email. After this you should write your name or reference the group of people you are writing on behalf of. If you are writing on behalf of more than just yourself (for example your spouse, or family) you should change words like “my” for “our”.

Yours in sympathy
With deepest sympathy
My sincere condolences
Wishing you strength and peace
Wishing you comfort in this difficult time
In sympathy and friendship
Keeping you in my thoughts
Warm regards and kind thoughts
Thinking of you and your family
Yours in sorrow

Facebook Messages for Loss of a Sister

These condolences can be public or private, and should respect the social media conventions. They may be shorter, but they should still be sincere and respectful. It’s common for people writing condolence messages to use similar words and phrasing, like “RIP” and “sorry for your loss”. While there’s nothing wrong with that, consider adding some personalization so messages come across as more meaningful.

“I was deeply saddened to hear about your sister’s passing. She was a wonderful person who touched many lives. My deepest condolences to you and your family.”
“Your sister’s kind spirit and warm heart will be greatly missed. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time.”
“I’m so sorry for your loss. Your sister was a truly special person. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.”
“Your sister was a beautiful soul who will be deeply missed. I’m here for you during this difficult time.”
“I’m deeply saddened by the news of your sister’s passing. She will be greatly missed. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.”
“I was shocked and saddened to hear about your sister’s passing. My heartfelt sympathies go out to you and your family.”
“My deepest condolences on the loss of your sister. Her memory will live on in our hearts. I’m here for you.”
“I’m heartbroken to hear about your sister’s passing. Her kind spirit will be missed by all who knew her.”
“I am so sorry to hear about your sister. She was a wonderful person who will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with you.”
“Your sister was an amazing person, and her loss is felt deeply. My condolences to you and your family during this time.”

Messages Based on Relationship

Condolence Message Examples for a Sister Who Was Extra Close

Losing a sister where there was an especially close relationship is extra hard. You can acknowledge this tight bond in your sympathy message.

“I know how close you and your sister were, and I can only imagine how deeply her loss is affecting you. I’m here for you during this difficult time. My deepest condolences.”
“Your bond with your sister was truly special, and I know her absence must be profoundly felt. Please accept my heartfelt condolences, and know that I am here for you.”
“I know your sister was more than just a sibling to you – she was your best friend. I’m deeply sorry for your loss and I’m here to support you in any way I can.”
“The love between you and your sister was truly inspirational. Please accept my sincerest condolences, and know that I am here for you during this challenging time.”
“The bond you and your sister shared was remarkable. I am deeply sorry for your loss, and I’m here for you.”
“I know how special your sister was to you, and I understand the pain you must be going through. Please accept my deepest sympathies.”
“I know how deep your love for your sister was, and how much you will miss her. Please know that I am here for you during this difficult time.”
“The bond between you and your sister was evident to everyone who knew you. My heart aches for you, and I am here to support you in any way you need.”
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of your beloved sister. I know how much she meant to you and how much you loved her. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.”
“Your sister was not just a sibling to you, but a best friend. I can only imagine the grief you must be experiencing. My thoughts and sympathies are with you.”

Condolence Message Examples for a Sister Who Was Distant

Sometimes the relationship may not have been so close, but losing a sister can still be difficult or at least complicated.

“While you may not have been close to your sister in recent years, I understand that her loss is still profound. My deepest condolences to you during this time.”
“Even though you and your sister had grown apart over the years, I know her passing still affects you deeply. My sympathies are with you during this difficult time.”
“I understand that your relationship with your sister was complicated, and her loss may bring a mix of emotions. I’m here to support you in any way you need.”
“Loss can be complicated when relationships were distant or strained. Please know that I am here for you as you navigate through this difficult time.”
“Even though you and your sister weren’t close, I know her loss is still deeply felt. My condolences to you during this time.”
“I understand that your relationship with your sister was not always easy. Nevertheless, I want you to know that I am here for you during this difficult time.”
“The loss of a family member is difficult, even when relationships are complicated. Please accept my condolences during this challenging time.”
“Despite the distance between you and your sister, I can imagine her loss is still hard to bear. I’m here for you during this challenging time.”
“The bond of family is strong, no matter the distance. I’m so sorry for the loss of your sister. My thoughts are with you.”
“I know your relationship with your sister had its complexities. Still, her loss must be difficult, and I want you to know that I’m here for you.”

For a Friend Who is Out of Contact or You Haven’t Spoken to in a While

This scenario may call for an acknowledgement of the distance, as well as the condolence message.

“I know it’s been a while since we last spoke, but I wanted to reach out to express my deepest condolences for your sister’s passing.”
“Even though time has passed, the news of your sister’s passing reached me and I wanted to let you know how sorry I am.”
“We may not have spoken in a while, but I am truly sorry to hear about your sister’s passing. She was an extraordinary person.”
“Although it’s been some time since we were last in touch, I felt compelled to reach out to you. I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your sister.”
“It’s been a while, but I wanted to let you know that I’m deeply sorry to hear about your sister’s passing. You’re in my thoughts.”
“I know we’ve lost touch over the years, but I wanted to extend my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your sister.”
“It’s been a long time, but I couldn’t let this moment pass without offering my deepest sympathies on the loss of your sister.”
“Even though it’s been a while, I wanted to express my deepest condolences on the loss of your sister. She touched so many lives.”
“I know it’s been some time since we last spoke, but I’m so sorry for your loss. Your sister will always be remembered.”
“Though we haven’t been in touch lately, I wanted to express my sorrow for the loss of your sister. She was an amazing person.”