Acknowledge the person who died
Use their name when appropriate and share one brief, kind memory if it belongs to you. Verify that the death is public or that you may mention it before sending unexpected details.
Do not combine grief with reconciliation pressure
Avoid asking why you lost touch, requesting forgiveness, or proposing a major reunion. Say that no response is needed and let them decide whether contact continues.
Offer support you can actually provide
Name one practical action, donation, meal, errand, or quiet check-in if appropriate. If the loss creates immediate safety concerns, use local crisis or emergency support rather than relying on a message.