Losing a loved one is an incredibly painful experience. When a friend or family member is grieving, finding the right words to express your condolences can be challenging. While words can offer comfort, showing your support through actions and thoughtful gestures can provide even greater solace during their healing process. If you are unable to be there physically, sending a bereavement gift is a meaningful way to let them know you are thinking of them and offering support during this difficult time. The Best Sympathy Gifts are those that convey your care and consideration, offering comfort without needing grand gestures.
Whether you are looking for a comforting sympathy gift basket, or condolence flowers to express your sympathy after the loss of a parent, we’ve gathered a selection of thoughtful options to help you show you care.
Gifts for Children | Classic Gifts | Modern Gifts | Memorial Wind Chimes | Gift Baskets | Flowers and Plants | Pet Memorial Gifts
Our Top Sympathy Gift Ideas
Navigating the options for sympathy gifts can feel overwhelming. To simplify your search, we’ve highlighted some of our top recommendations across different categories, ensuring you can find the perfect way to express your condolences.
Top-Rated Sympathy Gifts
These gifts are highly recommended and appreciated for their thoughtfulness and ability to provide comfort during times of grief.
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Sympathy gifts for children](#sympathy-gifts-for-children)
How I Feel: Grief Journal for Kids
This journal, “How I Feel: Grief Journal for Kids,” designed for children aged 8 and up, is created by a licensed clinical social worker. It offers a safe space for older children to process complex emotions associated with grief. Through writing and drawing prompts, alongside meditation reminders, this journal acts as a valuable tool in their healing journey. It’s a thoughtful sympathy gift for children learning to navigate loss.
“The Invisible String,” by Patrice Karst
The Invisible StringFor a child experiencing grief for the first time, “The Invisible String,” is a highly recommended picture book. Parents and educators alike praise this book for its simple yet effective approach to handling separation anxiety and loss. Its gentle narrative makes it an essential resource for children coping with grief, offering a comforting message of connection even when physically apart. This book is a comforting and thoughtful sympathy gift for young children.
Slumberkins Sprite Snuggler
Slumberkins Sprite SnugglerThe Slumberkins Sprite Snuggler provides a comforting routine for children during difficult times. This set includes a soft, winged Sprite character available in ivory or pastel rainbow, along with a board book and affirmation card. These tools encourage open conversations about grief and loss, making it a supportive and gentle sympathy gift for children needing structure and emotional processing.
Hugimals Weighted Sloth Plush
Hugimals Weighted Sloth PlushFor children who struggle to verbalize their grief, the Hugimals Weighted Sloth Plush offers a unique form of comfort. This weighted stuffed animal is designed to provide a gentle, comforting hug, which can be incredibly soothing. Developed with input from doctors and therapists, Hugimals are designed to reduce stress and anxiety, making this plush sloth a truly empathetic sympathy gift.
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Classic sympathy gifts](#classic-sympathy-gifts)
Customized Leather Journal
Personalized Leather JournalA Customized Leather Journal offers a private space for reflection during grief. In times when expressing feelings aloud is difficult, this personalized notebook provides a sanctuary for writing down thoughts and emotions. It’s a deeply personal and classic sympathy gift, encouraging introspection and healing.
Hand-Drawn Charcoal Portrait for Loved Ones
Hand Drawn Charcoal Portrait for Loved Ones
A Hand-Drawn Charcoal Portrait for Loved Ones transforms cherished memories into a tangible keepsake. This custom artwork beautifully captures the essence of a loved one and provides comfort through remembrance. Being a digital file, it offers flexibility in framing and delivery, making it a thoughtful and adaptable sympathy gift.
Artifact Uprising Custom Hardcover Photo Book
Hardcover Photo BookCreating an Artifact Uprising Custom Hardcover Photo Book is a deeply meaningful way to honor a life. This custom photo book serves as a lasting tribute, filled with precious moments and memories to revisit. It’s a special sympathy gift that helps preserve and celebrate the life of someone dear.
Brooklinen Cashmere-Lambswool Throw Blanket
Cashmere-Lambswool Throw Blanket
The Brooklinen Cashmere-Lambswool Throw Blanket provides physical comfort during emotional distress. In moments of grief, a soft, warm blanket can be incredibly comforting. Made with cashmere and lambswool, this throw from Brooklinen is a luxurious and practical sympathy gift, offering warmth and solace when needed most.
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Modern sympathy gifts](#modern-sympathy-gifts)
Dr. Teals Lavender Soothe & Sleep Foaming Bath
Lavender Soothe & Sleep Foaming Bath
Dr. Teal’s Lavender Soothe & Sleep Foaming Bath encourages self-care and relaxation. Promoting at-home wellness, this lavender-infused bubble bath with Epsom salt and essential oils helps soothe senses, ease muscle tension, and reduce stress. It’s a modern sympathy gift focused on providing comfort and tranquility.
“The Bright Hour: A Memoir of Living and Dying,” by Nina Riggs
The Bright Hour: A Memoir of Living and Dying
“The Bright Hour: A Memoir of Living and Dying,” a New York Times bestseller, offers an uplifting perspective during grief. This memoir shares a relatable and positive story of making the most of life even in the face of death. Its inspiring and even humorous tone provides comfort and a fresh outlook, making it a thoughtful modern sympathy gift.
“Notes on Grief,” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Notes on Grief“Notes on Grief,” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, addresses the complexities of grief experienced recently. In this deeply moving tribute to her father’s life and untimely passing, Adichie articulates the often-difficult thoughts and emotions associated with loss. This book is a poignant and relatable sympathy gift for those navigating contemporary grief.
“The Year of Magical Thinking,” by Joan Didion
The Year of Magical ThinkingJoan Didion’s “The Year of Magical Thinking” offers profound reflections on loss and grief. In her attempt to understand her husband’s death and her daughter’s illness, Didion’s insights into grief have resonated deeply with many. This book is a source of solace and understanding, making it a meaningful sympathy gift for those experiencing deep sadness.
The Grief Companion: A Supportive Guide to Navigating Grief
The Grief Companion: A Supportive Guide to Navigating Grief
The Grief Companion: A Supportive Guide to Navigating Grief provides practical support during the grieving process. This deck of cards serves as a portable resource, offering mindful intentions and comfort during trying times. It’s a helpful tool for understanding the evolving nature of grief, making it a supportive and modern sympathy gift.
“Mostly What God Does,” by Savannah Gutherie
Mostly What God Does“Mostly What God Does,” by Savannah Gutherie, encourages embracing sorrow and faith. This New York Times bestseller encourages readers to acknowledge feelings of sorrow rather than suppress them, while finding solace in faith. It’s a thoughtful sympathy gift, particularly for those who find strength in faith during difficult times.
LifeAround2Angels Handmade Bath Bombs Gift Set
LifeAround2Angels Handmade Bath Bombs Gift Set
The LifeAround2Angels Handmade Bath Bombs Gift Set offers a relaxing escape during times of loss. Encourage moments of healing and relaxation with these handmade bath bombs. This set of a dozen California-made bath bombs, formulated with moisturizing ingredients, is a comforting and practical sympathy gift, promoting self-care.
Birthstone Angel Wing Necklace
Birthstone Angel Wing Necklace for Women, Guardian Angel, Baby Loss, Miscarriage, Sentimental Sympathy Gift for Her, Dainty Memorial JewelryA Birthstone Angel Wing Necklace offers a constant reminder of remembrance. This minimalist necklace keeps the memory of a loved one close to the heart. Customization with a birthstone adds a personal touch, making it a sentimental and cherished sympathy gift.
Goldbelly E-Gift Card
Goldbelly E-Gift CardA Goldbelly E-Gift Card provides comfort through food, offering flexibility and choice. When unsure of specific preferences, a Goldbelly gift card is a versatile sympathy gift. It allows them to choose from a wide array of gourmet meals, desserts, or ingredient kits, offering a comforting meal at their convenience.
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Memorial wind chimes](#memorial-wind-chimes)
The Festive Farm Co ‘Two Souls’ Wind Chime
‘Two Souls’ Wind ChimeThe Festive Farm Co ‘Two Souls’ Wind Chime symbolizes eternal connection and remembrance. The two bells in this wind chime represent the everlasting bond between loved ones. Its delicate design and meaningful symbolism serve as a constant reminder of an intertwined connection, making it a touching memorial sympathy gift.
Engraved Tree of Life Memorial Wind Chimes
Engraved Tree of Life Memorial Wind Chimes
Engraved Tree of Life Memorial Wind Chimes offer symbolic comfort and lasting peace. Featuring the Tree of Life engraving, this wind chime symbolizes hope, eternity, peace, and family. It’s a meaningful memorial sympathy gift, providing a gentle auditory reminder of hope and remembrance.
Angel Wings Memorial Wind Chime
Angel Wings Memorial Wind Chime
The Angel Wings Memorial Wind Chime provides a comforting angelic presence. With copper-colored chimes and a ceramic angel wing, it brings a sense of peace. Accompanied by a poem titled “Sending You An Angel,” this wind chime is a comforting and symbolic memorial sympathy gift.
Paw Prints On My Heart Personalized Memorial Photo Wind Chimes
Personalized Memorial Photo Wind Chimes
Paw Prints On My Heart Personalized Memorial Photo Wind Chimes beautifully commemorate a beloved pet. For those grieving the loss of a pet, this wind chime honors their furry friend with a personal photo and message. It’s a touching and personalized memorial sympathy gift, celebrating the life of a cherished companion.
Listen To The Wind Personalized Memorial Wind Chimes
Listen To The Wind Personalized Memorial Wind Chimes
Listen To The Wind Personalized Memorial Wind Chimes offer a comforting message and personal touch. Crafted from metal and wood, it features the phrase “Listen to the Wind.” Personalize the reverse side with a name, dates, or message for a unique memorial. This wind chime is a thoughtful and customizable sympathy gift.
Copper Memorial Wind Chime
Copper Memorial Wind ChimeThe Copper Memorial Wind Chime provides a personalized message of nearness and remembrance. Inscribed with “Listen to the wind and know I am near,” this copper wind chime offers a comforting sentiment. Fully personalizable, it serves as a touching and bespoke memorial sympathy gift.
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Sympathy gift baskets](#sympathy-gift-baskets)
A Beautiful Soul is Never Forgotten Succulent and Candle Gift Box
A Beautiful Soul is Never Forgotten Succulent and Candle Gift Box
A Beautiful Soul is Never Forgotten Succulent and Candle Gift Box combines lasting beauty with comforting ambiance. This sympathy gift box includes a scented candle, decorative matches, and a small succulent in a ceramic pot. Accompanying a “A beautiful soul is never forgotten” card for a personal message, it’s a thoughtful and budget-friendly sympathy gift.
Sympathy Gift Box
Sympathy Gift Box: Organic Herbal Tea, Handpoured Soy Candle, Tea infuser, Tea Sampler, Personalized Card, Sorry for your loss memorial giftThe Sympathy Gift Box offers warmth and comfort through tea and relaxation. This tea gift set offers a choice of tea blends like Classic Chai and Organic Green Tea. Including a hand-poured soy candle and personalized card, this sympathy gift box is designed to soothe and comfort.
Cheryl’s Cookies Sympathy Tower
cookie boxCheryl’s Cookies Sympathy Tower provides sweet comfort through baked goods. This sweet bundle of cookies, including chocolate chip and buttercream frosted varieties, alongside chocolate covered pretzels, is ideal for those who appreciate comforting treats. It’s a delicious and thoughtful sympathy gift basket.
Sending a Hug Sympathy Gift Box
Sending a Hug Sympathy Gift Box
Sending a Hug Sympathy Gift Box is a care package for self-care and comfort. This Etsy sympathy gift box includes items for a day of self-care, such as a facial clay mask, soap, body oil, and a scented candle. It’s a thoughtful way to send a ‘hug’ when you can’t be there in person.
Harry & David Classic Sympathy Gift Box
Classic Sympathy Gift BoxThe Harry & David Classic Sympathy Gift Box offers a generous assortment of gourmet treats. For a larger selection of comforting foods, this gift basket from Harry & David includes pears, cheese, crackers, baklava, and more. It’s a substantial and comforting sympathy gift basket for sharing or enjoying.
Harry & David Sympathy Ice Cream Assortment
Sympathy Ice Cream AssortmentHarry & David Sympathy Ice Cream Assortment delivers comfort with a personal touch. This ice cream assortment includes pints with supportive messages on each label, showing you care from afar. It’s a unique and comforting sympathy gift, delivering frozen solace.
Spoonful of Comfort Sympathy Soup Gift Basket
Sympathy Soup Gift BasketsSpoonful of Comfort Sympathy Soup Gift Basket warms the soul with comforting, homemade-style soup. Offering options like chicken noodle soup, creamy corn chowder, or mac & cheese, this gift basket includes a generous serving of soup, rolls, and cookies. Vegan and gluten-free options are available, making it a considerate and nurturing sympathy gift.
1-800-Baskets With Sympathy Fruit & Treats Basket
1800Baskets With Sympathy Fruit & Treats Basket
1-800-Baskets With Sympathy Fruit & Treats Basket is a versatile and universally appreciated gesture of condolence. A fruit and treats basket from 1-800-Baskets is a safe and thoughtful choice, especially when you’re unsure of personal preferences. Including fruit, nuts, and chocolates, it’s a classic sympathy gift suitable for various relationships.
Spoonful of Comfort Sympathy and Solace Care Package
Sympathy and Solace Care Package
The Spoonful of Comfort Sympathy and Solace Care Package provides multi-sensory comfort and support. This care package from Spoonful of Comfort includes a cozy blanket, a healing book, and the option to add a personal note. Designed to cater to multiple senses, it’s a comprehensive and reassuring sympathy gift.
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Sympathy flowers and plants](#sympathy-flowers-and-plants)
Lovepop Sympathy Bundle
Sympathy BundleThe Lovepop Sympathy Bundle offers a lasting, allergy-friendly floral alternative. Featuring a paper tulip bouquet and tree, this Lovepop bundle is perfect for those with allergies. It’s a unique and enduring sympathy gift, moving away from traditional flowers.
The Sill Bird’s Nest Fern
The Sill Bird’s Nest Fern brings a touch of lasting life and greenery. For plant lovers, this low-maintenance, pet-friendly fern from The Sill is a cheerful and enduring sympathy gift. Requiring minimal care, it offers ongoing comfort and a reminder of life’s continuity.
1-800-Flowers Sympathy Healing Tears Pink & White Arrangement
1800Flowers Sympathy Healing Tears Pink & White Arrangement
1-800-Flowers Sympathy Healing Tears Pink & White Arrangement is a classic and beautiful floral expression of sympathy. This “Healing Tears” bouquet from 1-800-Flowers, featuring pink roses, lilies, and daisies in a clear vase, is a traditional and elegant sympathy gift, conveying heartfelt condolences.
From You Flowers Deepest Sympathy Arrangement
From You Flowers Deepest Sympathy Arrangement
From You Flowers Deepest Sympathy Arrangement provides a vibrant and comforting floral tribute. This bouquet from From You Flowers, with snapdragons, lilies, and gladiolus, offers a beautiful and direct expression of sympathy. Delivered to their door, it’s a convenient and thoughtful sympathy gift.
1-800-Flowers Elegant Orchid
1800Flowers Elegant Orchid1-800-Flowers Elegant Orchid is a sophisticated and lasting symbol of remembrance. An orchid is an elegant and timeless tribute for someone who has passed. Arriving in a clear glass cube planter, it’s a refined and enduring sympathy gift.
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Pet memorial gifts](#pet-memorial-gifts)
Forever in Our Hearts Soy Condolence Candle
Forever in Our Hearts Soy Condolence Candle
The Forever in Our Hearts Soy Condolence Candle offers a personalized and scented remembrance for a pet. This candle, available in various sizes and scents, with a customizable personal message and pet’s name, is a thoughtful pet memorial sympathy gift.
Personalized Pet Memorial Photo Block
Personalized Pet Memorial Printed 4
A Personalized Pet Memorial Photo Block creates a lasting visual tribute to a pet. Made from Baltic birchwood, this custom photo block can be placed anywhere. Customizable with add-ons like a planter, it’s a cherished and personal pet memorial sympathy gift.
Personalized Dog Mug with Angel Wings
Personalized Dog Mug with Angel Wings
A Personalized Dog Mug with Angel Wings combines daily use with sentimental value. Showcasing a peaceful image of their pet with optional angel wings, this personalized mug from Etsy offers various breeds and designs. It’s a comforting and practical pet memorial sympathy gift.
My Evergreen Pet Paw Print Painted Stepping Stone
Pet Paw Print Painted Stepping Stone
My Evergreen Pet Paw Print Painted Stepping Stone offers a garden tribute and heartfelt message. This garden stone with paw prints and the inscription “If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever” is a sentimental pet memorial sympathy gift, suitable for outdoor remembrance.
Pearhead Pet Memorial Sentiment Picture Frame
Pearhead Pet Memorial Sentiment Picture Frame
The Pearhead Pet Memorial Sentiment Picture Frame provides a space to honor and remember a pet indoors. This memorial frame allows for a favorite photo and display of a pet’s collar, keeping their memory alive. It’s a lasting and personal pet memorial sympathy gift.
Willow Tree Sculpted Hand-Painted Angels
Willow Tree Sculpted Hand-Painted Angels
Willow Tree Sculpted Hand-Painted Angels offers a sentimental figurine of comfort and companionship. This hand-painted Willow Tree angel holding a dog symbolizes enduring companionship and remembrance. Gift-boxed and highly-rated, it’s a touching and comforting pet memorial sympathy gift.
My Pawfect Pet Succulent and Frame
My Pawfect Pet Succulent and Frame
My Pawfect Pet Succulent and Frame combines lasting life with personal remembrance for pets. This set from 1-800-Flowers includes a succulent and a frame for a pet photo, with vase options for cats or dogs. It’s a dual sympathy gift, offering both a living plant and a photo memorial.
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How we chose the best sympathy gifts](#how-we-chose-the-best-sympathy-gifts)
The Shop TODAY editors and writers are committed to providing helpful and reliable recommendations for sympathy gifts. Our selections are based on thorough online research and consideration of products known for their quality and thoughtfulness. We also incorporate our understanding of user needs in times of grief to curate a list that offers a range of meaningful and supportive options, aiming to make your choice of a best sympathy gift easier and more impactful.
