08/30/2026
There is no easy way to tell someone that a person they love has died.
But if you ever find yourself making that call, consider doing the following:
→ Say the words clearly and gently. Avoid phrases like "passed away peacefully" at first; the person on the other end needs to understand what has happened. Say: "I have some very hard news. [Name] has died."
→ Give them a moment of silence. Don't rush to fill it.
→ Stay on the phone. Ask if they're somewhere safe. Ask if there's someone with them.
→ You don't have to have the right words. "I'm so sorry. I love you. I'm here." is enough.
→ Offer to call back. Shock can make it hard to absorb anything in the first few minutes.
Making this call is one of the hardest things a person can do. The fact that you're the one doing it, that you're showing up for someone in their worst moment, matters more than you know.
Save this post. Share it with someone who may need it someday.
