It's best to talk slowly and gently using plain, simple language. You may want to warn them that you have bad (or sad) news to try to make it less of a shock. It is usually clearer to say that someone has died than to say things such as 'gone to sleep', 'gone away' or that you have 'lost' the person.
It is imperative to notify family members and close friends of the passing of your parent as soon as possible. Notifying them immediately will help you navigate the difficult time following your parent's death. They can help you organize a funeral and take care of any necessary affairs.
It's up to you to decide who to tell, and when you're ready. You might be holding off telling some or all of your friends because you're worried about how they will react or that you might get upset when you start talking about it.
With great sadness, we announce the loss of our beloved father, (insert name). In loving memory of (insert name), we are saddened to announce their passing on (insert date). A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Please join us to mourn the passing of (insert name).
The best way to do this is by putting together a letter or email that you can send to them directly. If you've never notified people when a loved one has passed away or died, it can feel like a lot to take on.
Your message should be direct. You don't want to share the news five minutes into the conversation. Instead, start with, “I have some sad news,” then go from there, using simple, to-the-point language. Don't try to make them feel better about the situation, because you don't know how they're feeling.
Use sensitive wording
Here's an example: “Family and friends, it is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of a very special person. I'm so sorry that you will hear the news this way, but our family wants to make sure everyone hears before the funeral.”
Our Dad, [name] sadly left us on [date]. He died peacefully, and we were able to spend time with him in his final days. If anyone would like to join us, we'll be raising a glass in Dad's memory at [time] on [date] at [location]. As Dad always said: “Everything feels a bit lighter after a beer with friends.
It is usually best to tell them the news in person. If this is not possible, making a phone call is better than sending a text or email. Allow plenty of time when you're with the person or making the call. If possible, make sure you are in a safe and confidential space where there will be no potential interruptions.
Grief tends to end friendships because of a lack of support when needed and expected and because many don't understand the depths of a suffering friend's despair. They lack the knowledge about how grief can affect a person and how you might reconnect with someone after a death.
It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the death of our colleague and friend, (name), who passed away on (date). (Name) passed away unexpectedly/had suffered with a prolonged illness in recent years/or was involved in an accident. We will all miss him/her more than words can express.
It's normal to have a tough time for the first year, Schiff says. After then, you often accept your parent's death and move on. But the grief may bubble up, especially on holidays and birthdays. Consider getting professional help.
Children who experience parental loss are at a higher risk for many negative outcomes, including mental issues (e.g., depression, anxiety, somatic complaints, post-traumatic stress symptoms), shorter schooling, less academic success, lower self-esteem5, and more sexual risk behaviors6.
The 40 days is an opportunity for judgment before God. It's believed in Eastern Orthodox religions that the soul completes many obstacles known as the aerial toll houses. The soul passes through the aerial realm, which is home to evil spirits.
I miss you so much! If you are looking at me from up in heaven, I want you to know that I'm not okay without you. It's been quite a while now since you are gone but I still keep can't help myself missing you so much. All the happiness in this world could not fill the hole you left in me.
Underneath their name, write something like, “The Late Mr. Arthur Den” as a way to recognize your parent who is no longer here. This honors the deceased without adding an entire page to your program. It's the most simple way to address your deceased parent.
Say “thank you.”
People want to know that their life mattered. Take some time to thank your father for the things he taught you and the experiences you shared. Use this time to share your memories and ask your father to share his. Ask him what he'd like to be remembered for and what advice he'd like to leave behind.
It's best to talk slowly and gently using plain, simple language. You may want to warn them that you have bad (or sad) news to try to make it less of a shock. It is usually clearer to say that someone has died than to say things such as 'gone to sleep', 'gone away' or that you have 'lost' the person.