How to Write a Leave Application for the Death of a Family Member.


Published: 7 Aug 2025


When someone close to you dies, the heart is very sad. It can be difficult even to inform anyone at such a time.

But if you are unable to go to school or the office, then writing a simple leave request is essential.

With such a request:

  • The person in front knows why you are absent
  • And your style also seems polite

In this article, you will learn how to write a leave request that is:

  • Short
  • In simple language
  • And easy to understand

Whether you are a student or an office worker, this guide is useful for everyone.

So, are you ready? Let’s learn to write in a simple way 

Importance of writing a death leave application 

When a loved one dies, life comes to a standstill for a few days. It is not possible to go to school, college, or the office at such a time.

But before being absent, it is very important to write a simple request. Why?

  • So that the teacher or officer can know the reason for your absence
  • Your absence is recorded properly
  • It shows that you are responsible and know how to be respectful

Writing such a request politely sends a good message about your personality and behavior.

It is a small step, but its impacts are big.

If you do not write it, the absence may be considered unjustified.

Therefore, whenever a loved one dies, you must write a request for leave. In simple language, short and clear.

Steps to Writing a Death Leave Application 

The death of a loved one is a heartbreaking experience. Even at such times, if it is not possible to go to school or the office, it is important to write a short and clear request.

Here are some simple steps that will help you:

  • Write the date:  Write the day on which you are writing at the top of the request.
  • Write the name of the addressee:  Write the name and position of the person to whom you are sending the request (for example, a principal, officer, or manager).
  • Write the subject: Write a simple title:  “Request for Bereavement Leave”
  • Give the reason:  Write in short sentences who has passed away, and why you need the leave.
  • Write the days of the leave:  Write clearly from what date to what date you will be on leave.
  •  Write a thank you note:  At the end, thank the reader politely, so that it feels good.
  • Write your name and class/position:  Be sure to write your name, class or office position in the last line.

Keep it simple so that the reader can understand without any obstacles.

Samples of death leave application.

Here are some of the best samples of funeral leave applications that I have prepared for you to just copy and paste. 

How to write a leave application for the death of a family member.

Simple death leave application.

When our lives one person passes away, we are really deeply hurt due to his/her absence. So in this case, we need to live with our family to encourage and take care of each other. So, to take leave from school/office, here I have compiled a simple but effective leave application for you to make your task easier and save time. So let’s come and jump into the application right now. 

Simple death leave application.

Subject: Request for Leave Due to Family Loss  

Dear [Manager/Principal/Sir/Madam],  

I hope everything is ok on your side. Today I am so sad, because one of my loved ones, my [father/mother/friend/] has passed away on [date]. This is a very hard time for me and my family to bear, but we are still trying to stay strong and support each other. 

I kindly request you to grant me leave from [start date] to [end date], so that I can attend the funeral and be with my family/friend. I’ll come back to work/school once things set a little bit more. 

Thank you for your support. 

Yours sincerely 

[Your Name]  

[Your Position/Class]  

[Contact Number]  

Family death leave application.

Family death leave application.

Subject: Leave Request Due to Death in the Family

Dear [Sir/Madam],

I hope you are doing well. Today I am highly sad and writing to inform you that one of my loved ones, family member, my  [uncle, aunt, grandfather, etc.] passed away on [date].

This is a very difficult time for me and my other family members. I need to be with my family to attend the funeral and offer support. So, I kindly request you to grant me leave from [start date] to [end date].

Thank you for your kind understanding.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Class/Position]

Leave application for the death ceremony.

Leave application for the death ceremony.

Subject: Leave Request to Attend Death Ceremony

Dear [Sir/Madam],

I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request leave to attend the death ceremony of my [relation – e.g., grandmother, uncle, father], which will be held on [date].

It is an important ritual in our family, and I need to be there with my loved ones during this time. Please grant me leave for [number of days], from [start date] to [end date].

I will manage any pending work before I go. Thank you for your support and understanding.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Class/Designation]

Leave application for the death anniversary.

Leave application for the death anniversary.

Subject: Leave Request for Death Anniversary

Dear [Sir/Madam],

I hope you are well. I am writing to request leave for one day to attend the death anniversary of my [relation – e.g., father, mother, grandfather] on [date].

This day is very important for me and my family. We will be holding a small prayer and gathering at home.

I kindly request you to grant me leave on [exact date]. I will manage my duties before or after my leave.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Class/Position]

Leave application for the death of father 

Leave application for the death anniversary of the grandfather

Leave application for the death anniversary of the grandfather

Subject: Request for Leave on Grandfather’s Death Anniversary  

Dear [Manager/Principal/Sir/Madam],  

I am writing to request a day’s leave on [date] as it marks the death anniversary of my beloved grandfather. Our family gathers on this day every year to honor his memory and perform religious rituals.  

I kindly request your permission to take leave on this day so I can be with my family. I will complete all pending work in advance to ensure no disruption.  

Thank you for your understanding and support.  

Sincerely,  

[Your Name]  

[Your Class/Employee ID]  

[Contact Number]  

How to request an extended death leave after the funeral 

Sometimes, when a close relative dies, a person needs more time off even after the funeral. It may be time to relax mentally, perform some religious rituals, or take care of family matters. In such a situation, it is better to politely request more time off.

So, how do you request this leave?

Here is a simple explanation:

1. Write your situation clearly

Write about the real reason for your leave. You don’t need to write everything in detail; just say that there are still some personal or family responsibilities.

Example:

“I have some family matters to attend to after my [relative] passed away, so I need a few more days off.”

2. Be polite

Always write with respect. Use gentle language. Show that you are aware that work is also important.

 Example:

“I know that work is essential, but please allow me [days] more.”

3. Write the days clearly

Write clearly how many days you want off. Include the return date.

Example:

“I am requesting leave from [date] to [date], and I will return to work on [return date].”

4. Say you are available to be contacted if needed

If your work requires you to be available, write that down as well.

Example:

“I will be available by phone if something important comes up.”

5. Show gratitude

Don’t forget to say thank you at the end. It shows politeness and makes your request genuine.

Example:

“Thank you for understanding my situation.”

Sample Request

To,

Manager

[Company Name]

[City Name]

Subject: Request for Extension of Bereavement Leave after Funeral

Dear Sir,

Assalamu Alaikum,

I had taken leave on [date] to attend the funeral of my [relative]. Now I am requesting an additional [days] leave, as I still have some family responsibilities and personal matters to attend to.

Please allow me to take leave from [new date] to [new date]. I will be back at work on [return date]. I will be available by phone if anything urgent arises.

Thank you so much 

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Position]

Death Leave Application for the loss  of a Friend

When a close friend dies, it can have a profound impact on your heart. It can be stressful, depressing, and can affect your ability to function daily. At such times, it can be necessary to take a few days off from school, college, or the office. By writing a simple request, you can formally inform your teacher, principal, or boss that you need a short leave.

This request should be written politely, and the reason should be brief. For example, you could write: “I am requesting leave due to the death of my dear friend.” You don’t need to go into too much detail. Just be gentle, respectful, and simple.

If you are a student, give this request to your teacher or principal. If you work in an office, send it to your manager or HR department. Usually, a request for 1 to 2 days of leave is made, especially if you have to attend a funeral or go abroad.

 With such leave, you can take care of yourself, attend the last rites, and give your mind some time to rest. Writing this request also proves your responsibility, and gives you time to yourself.

Key Points to Keep in Mind When Writing a Death Leave Application

When a person hears about the death of a loved one or a friend, he or she is emotionally shaken. Even in such a situation, if one has to take leave from school, college, or office, then the request needs to be written properly. Here are some important things to remember while writing:

  • Politeness and Respect:  The request should always be written with gentleness, respect, and courtesy. The words should not be harsh, and there should be no annoying tone.
  • Write the reason clearly:  While writing, write clearly why you want the leave. For example: “My uncle has passed away, so I need a day’s leave.”
  • Write the date:  Be sure to write the date on the request to indicate when you have requested the leave. This is important for the office or school to keep records.
  • Specify the days of leave:  Write clearly how many days of leave you are requesting, such as “Please grant me leave for 2 days.”
  •  Be ready to give contact information:  If you are in the office, you can write at the end that you should be contacted if anything needs clarification.
  • Address the right person:  If you are a student, write “Headmaster Sahib” or “Respected Teacher”. For an office, “Mr. Boss” or “Respected Manager” would be correct.
  • Avoid extra details:  Avoid giving too many details. There is no need to write the details of the nature of the death or the accident. Just the cause should be clear.
  • Correct address and signature:  Be sure to write your name, class or department, and signature at the end of the request.

Keeping all these things in mind will make your leave request understandable, polite, and more likely to be approved.

Conculions 

Writing a request for a death leave is not a formality, but a sign of sympathy, responsibility, and understanding. There are times in life when feelings are more important than words. In such cases, a simple, clear, and respectful request improves communication with the organization. Doing so not only makes the reason for your absence clear but also makes your attitude look professional. Above all, prioritize politeness, honesty, and punctuality — because respect is the greatest message.




Shahzada Sajaz Avatar
Shahzada Sajaz

I am Shahzada Sajaz, an expert English writer and fluent English speaker with more than 10 years of experience. I completed my PhD in English at the University of Punjab. I have helped many students write correct and simple English applications. Now, I share easy-to-understand applications and tips to help students and learners enhance their writing skills. My goal is to make English writing accessible to everyone.


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