Has someone important to you passed away? What was the most comforting/most respectful thing anyone said to you when that happened? I work with the elderly, who die at an accelerated rate. 98% of the time, I genuinely care about the deceased and would like to give comfort to the surviving family. Since this comes up a lot, I feel as if I'm repeating the same phrases over and over. I need more options. I'm specifically asking for things people said to you that were kind. [more inside]
posted by Lately Gone on Mar 21, 2013 - 78 answers

Just found out that the child of a person I worked with (and was friends with through work) died two months ago. Should I contact them, or is it too late? [more inside]
posted by Hactar on Oct 19, 2011 - 14 answers

I just found out that a coworker lost her daughter today in an accident. What on earth do I say to her when I see her later this week? [more inside]
posted by bookmammal on Feb 21, 2011 - 33 answers

Our customer's mom died. Is it appropriate to send a card? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Aug 24, 2010 - 29 answers

My good friends' cat just died. What can I get them/do for them? [more inside]
posted by Maia on Apr 26, 2008 - 27 answers

I need to send a basket of goodies for a bereavement in North Carolina. Said basket needs to be delivered (between Greensboro and Chapel Hill). Anyone have recommendations? [more inside]
posted by 6:1 on Mar 2, 2008 - 8 answers

My professor's father just died. Normally I wouldn’t care, but I really like this prof and it’s a very small class where everyone knows each other. I would like to offer some condolence, especially since this happened right before the holidays, even if it is just a short email message. Would this be appropriate? What should I say / not say?
posted by fourstar on Dec 7, 2004 - 37 answers