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How to Write a Goodbye Letter Before Dying Or To Someone You Love

Goodbyes are never easy, but writing a goodbye letter gives you the chance to say what matters most. Whether you’re moving, facing a life transition, or preparing for the end of life, a farewell letter becomes a lasting gift of love, memory, and connection.
Elderly woman and daughter reflect sadly on a photograph

Goodbyes are never easy, but writing a goodbye letter gives you the chance to say what matters most. Whether you’re moving, facing a life transition, or preparing for the end of life, a farewell letter becomes a lasting gift of love, memory, and connection.

How to Write a Farewell Letter

Goodbyes are tough. Whether you’re facing a major life change, moving away, or preparing for the end of life, writing a goodbye letter gives you space to say what might not be said otherwise. It becomes a heartfelt keepsake—something your loved ones will turn to again and again for comfort and connection.

Why Write a Goodbye Letter?

This isn’t just a letter; it’s a legacy—and a deeply human one at that. A goodbye letter lets you:

  • Speak from the heart: Say “I love you,” “thank you,” or “you matter,” even if this might be hard to say out loud.
  • Offer solace: Soft words of reassurance can mean the world during a hard time.
  • Share favorite memories: Passing along a story, inside joke, or meaningful moment ensures you’re remembered in full color.
  • Give yourself peace: Closing your heart with intention helps you and others find calm and clarity.

What Should You Include?

There’s no one-size-fits-all template, but you might find these touchpoints meaningful:

  1. Start with personal warmth
    “Dear [Name],” or a quiet greeting only the two of you would understand.
  2. Name what they mean to you
    Speak in plain, honest terms—“Your kindness shaped who I am,” or “I loved how we laughed at the little things.”
  3. Express gratitude
    Whether for lifelong support, small kindnesses, or unforgettable moments—say thank you.
  4. Recall a moment or memory
    Something specific: a walk, a song, the way they made you smile on a bad day.
  5. Offer hope or encouragement
    A gentle reminder that you believe in them, and that they’re not alone—even when you can’t be there.
  6. Close with something real
    Words like “With all my love,” “May you find peace,” or even “Until we meet again.”

elderly couple embrace looking out at the sea

A Few Goodbye Letter Examples

  • To a child: “Remember that no matter where I am, I’m cheering you on—believe in yourself like I always did.”
  • To a partner: “Thank you for the little adventures and quiet moments. You made every day worth it.”
  • To a friend: “I’ll never forget our long talks and laughter. Keep making life brighter the way only you can.”
  • To family: “I don’t know who I’d be without our shared history—keep each other close.”

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How to Write a Goodbye Letter (Without Pressure)

Writing this letter doesn’t have to be perfect. Just write like you’re talking to them, forgetting grammar or format. Let a phrase like, “Here’s what matters most to me…” be your start. Let your words flow from there.

Keeping the Letter Safe

After writing, you might:

  • Give it to the person now (if you’re prepared emotionally),
  • Store it with your important documents, or
  • Keep it in a digital file for later access.

Wherever it rests, know it will offer comfort when it’s needed.

Daughter hugging her father sadly

A Parting Gift from the Heart

A goodbye letter isn’t just words on paper—it’s a piece of you. It’s a gift of love, memory, and timeless connection. While the future may feel uncertain, what you write today can become a source of strength and comfort for those you care about.

Your words matter—now and always.

Contact Everis 24/7 for immediate support with cremation servicesprepaid complete cremation servicesmemorial treeseco-friendly memorial servicesmemorial grave markers, transparent pricing, or questions about affordable cremation options.

See also: What Is An Obituary, Who Writes It & How Do They Work? How to Write a Eulogy For a Family Member or Friend With Examples or How to Write an Obituary

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