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Bereavement

Sending a bereavement card to someone you haven't seen for years

(40 Posts)
Retired65 Sun 09-Feb-25 18:43:30

I have just learnt that my ex boyfriend's sister has died. I haven't seen him since 1987. We went out together for over 16 years but he never wanted to get married or have children. He has remained unmarried. He was very close to his sister. I knew his sister, went on holiday together with boyfriend plus bought Christmas presents for each other.

I am unable to go to the funeral but I wondered about sending a card and enquiring from the funeral director about flowers or donation to a charity.

What to you think?

Poppyred Sun 09-Feb-25 18:47:43

I would …..

MissAdventure Sun 09-Feb-25 18:48:19

Yes, I'd do that.

It doesnt seem you'd be overstepping the mark at all.

Mt61 Sun 09-Feb-25 18:48:42

Yes. An absolutely kind gesture. We had loads of cards from people from years gone by, for dad. I think your ex will be pleased that you remembered his sister with fondness.

crazyH Sun 09-Feb-25 18:50:51

Yes - that’s very kind of you and I’m sure it will be appreciated.

Babs03 Sun 09-Feb-25 18:56:52

Yes do it. Is a really nice gesture. Am sure the brother will appreciate that you remembered her.
xx

Barleyfields Sun 09-Feb-25 18:57:36

I think that would be kind. You only get one chance at this sort of thing.

Georgesgran Sun 09-Feb-25 19:09:55

Yes - wearing the boot on the other foot, I think your ex-boyfriend would appreciate the gesture,

JamesandJon33 Sun 09-Feb-25 19:17:54

Yes I would too. You obviously loved him once, it would be a lovely gesture

Cossy Sun 09-Feb-25 19:26:31

Yes, I would too.

GrannyIvy Sun 09-Feb-25 19:49:07

Too many years gone by if you never kept any contact why bother 🤷‍♀️ Sorry over 30, years ago since last contact ….

RosieandherMaw Sun 09-Feb-25 20:16:13

I think GrannyIvy has been outvoted.
I too would send a card, from my own experience it will be appreciated.

Busybeejay1 Sun 09-Feb-25 20:25:06

I would send a message.I am sure they will appreciate a kind message.It shows you are thinking about them.
Barbarax

Devorgilla Sun 09-Feb-25 20:28:59

Yes, send the card. It can do no harm and may give them comfort that you remembered the time you had with them.

HS62 Mon 10-Feb-25 13:28:13

I think it's a lovely idea, and nothing inappropriate about it. I think it's expected that long forgotten people get in touch when they find out about someone they knew well died. I've just recently done it myself, and there were no hard feelings from their relatives . In fact, they appreciated that I remembered their loved one.

creakingandchronic Mon 10-Feb-25 13:28:32

Yes sure I would maybe if you look online at a local paper to them it usually lists death notices, then you would be able to see if there is a chosen charity for donation.
if you do maybe put a small note at the bottom of the card saying you have made a donation to the chosen charity

vintage1950 Mon 10-Feb-25 13:36:48

Yes, do send the card and make the donation. It's a lovely gesture.

Kim19 Mon 10-Feb-25 13:45:14

A huge yes from me.

knspol Mon 10-Feb-25 13:56:18

Absolutely YES! These things mean a great deal to bereaved people.

ballie Mon 10-Feb-25 14:01:11

To be honest and in general, I cannot see any reason not to send a bereavement card to someone you have not seen for years. You obviously have a choice, but this small gesture of kindness is felt. I recently sent a card to someone I had not seen for over 55 years and had no hesitation whatsoever in doing so.

GrauntyHelen Mon 10-Feb-25 14:01:53

I would send a card

NonGrannyMoll Mon 10-Feb-25 14:03:38

When my son died I was amazed at the number of cards we received, many of them from people we didn't even know. At his funeral, too, there were so many people that they couldn't all fit into the church. It meant a great deal to us and I think the family of your ex's sister would also be touched to receive a card from you.

Nightsky2 Mon 10-Feb-25 14:08:19

You must.

pascal30 Mon 10-Feb-25 14:13:01

I think he'd be very comforted that you remembered him and his sister.. good idea..

AuntieE Mon 10-Feb-25 14:15:34

I too would send a card. All condolences help a little.