How to Address a Sympathy Card

by Cheryl Stephens
(Selbyville, De)

How do you address an envelope to a grieving person? Should I address the sympathy card to Mrs. John Smith & family or Mr. & Mrs. John Smith & family?

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Dear Cheryl,

Good question. The answer depends on who is grieving. If both husband and wife have suffered the loss of a loved one, you would want to address the card to Mr. and Mrs. John Smith & Family.

I've heard of spouses feeling left out when a sympathy card was addressed only to their spouse and not to them. This happens often when one person loses a parent. Others assume that the loss mostly affected the son or daughter and not necessarily the son or daughter-in-law. However, family is family and such a loss can be difficult for all family members.

In general it is best to include the "and family" so as not to leave anybody out.

Perhaps the only instance in which you would address a sympathy card to only one spouse would be if the loss really only affected one spouse and not the other. For example, if a good friend or co-worker suffered the loss of a dear friend that her immediate family did not know well, you could just address the card to her.

I hope this helps and is exactly what you are looking for, if not let me know.

Best Wishes,

Jenna