The Etiquette for Sending Sympathy Cards in a Timely Manner

Keep your note simple. Introduce yourself and, if you don't know the person receiving the note, explain your connection to the deceased. Share some happy event that you shared with the deceased or mention a positive memory that you have of the individual. If your connection is to the note's recipient, rather than to the deceased, just let him know that you are thinking of him and offer your condolences. Unless you are close enough to the family that you would normally be visiting with them in person, mail your card. Depending on the circumstances, the family may not have either the facilities or the emotional reserves necessary to receive visitors.