Messages & wording
Funeral flower meanings and card messages
By Lindiwe Khumalo · 5 min read · Updated 24 June 2026
Flowers are a gentle way to say what is hard to put into words. This page explains common funeral flower meanings and gives you short, copy-ready messages for the card or wreath - because the few lines on the card often matter as much as the flowers themselves.
When you order flowers, the florist will ask what to write on the card. Use one of the short messages below, or adapt it. Keep it brief - a card has little space, and simple words read best.
Replace any [PLACEHOLDER] with the person's name or your own.
What common funeral flowers mean
If you want the flowers to carry meaning, these are the traditional associations:
| Flower | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Lilies | Restored innocence and peace; the classic funeral flower |
| White roses | Purity, reverence and remembrance |
| Red roses | Deep love and respect |
| Chrysanthemums | In many cultures, a flower of mourning and honour |
| Carnations | Lasting love and remembrance |
| Orchids | Enduring love and sympathy |
| Gladioli | Strength of character and integrity |
White and soft-coloured flowers are the most traditional choice. When unsure, a simple arrangement of lilies or white roses is always appropriate.
Short messages for the flower card
Copy any of these:
With deepest sympathy from [NAME].
In loving memory of [NAME]. Forever in our hearts.
Rest in peace. You will be deeply missed.
Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
Gone from our sight, never from our hearts.
With love and prayers, the [SURNAME] family.
Short verses for the wreath or card
If you want a verse rather than a line, these are short enough to fit:
Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day.
A heart of gold stopped beating, hard-working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best.
No farewell words were spoken, no time to say goodbye. You were gone before we knew it, and only God knows why.
These short verses are widely used and free to write on a card.
Choosing and sending flowers in South Africa
- Check the family's wishes first. Some ask for "no flowers" and a donation to a cause instead. Always respect this.
- Send to the right place. Flowers usually go to the home, the funeral parlour or the service venue, not the cemetery.
- Timing. Aim to have them arrive before the service, or on the morning of the funeral.
- Faith notes. Some traditions, including many Jewish and Muslim funerals, do not use flowers. A donation or a visit is more appropriate there.
A local florist will know the customs and can deliver to the venue.
Frequently asked questions
What do funeral flowers mean?
Lilies symbolise peace and restored innocence, white roses purity and remembrance, carnations lasting love, and chrysanthemums mourning and honour in many cultures. White and soft-coloured flowers are the most traditional funeral choice.
What do you write on a funeral flower card?
Keep it short. Common messages include "With deepest sympathy from [name]", "In loving memory, forever in our hearts" and "Rest in peace, you will be deeply missed." A brief, sincere line fits the small card best.
What flowers are best for a funeral?
Lilies and white roses are the most traditional and always appropriate. Carnations, chrysanthemums, orchids and gladioli are also common. When in doubt, a simple white arrangement is a safe, respectful choice.
Where should funeral flowers be sent?
Flowers usually go to the family home, the funeral parlour or the service venue, not the cemetery. Aim for them to arrive before the service or on the morning of the funeral. A local florist can deliver to the right place.
When should you not send funeral flowers?
Respect the family's wishes if they ask for "no flowers" and a donation instead. Some traditions, including many Jewish and Muslim funerals, do not use flowers, so a donation or a visit is more appropriate in those cases.
